Joey Beltram ‎– Places

first class stuff

Like everyone else says, this is an absolute classic. I actually prefer this album of some of his earlier, better known work. Here, Beltram relies a lot less on the 303 squelchy sounds and focuses more on just making skeletal techno bangers. Even for something made in 1995, this sounds fairly primitive. Each track is basically made up of some drum loops filtered through effects with the occasional synth stab thrown in. The loops do vary because they are added and subtracted throughout the duration of the tracks but they are fairly simple. Lots of sharp handclap sounds on here as well. Not much melody at all. Sounds kinda boring but it's really not because these tracks are so finely crafted despite their rudimentary simplicity. My favorite tracks on here are probably "Ten Four" and "Metro". Highly recommended if you want to hear some excellent purist techno.

This LP was Joey's finest work since the classic 'Energy Flash'
When this came out there wasn't a techno dj on earth who didn't have it in there box. It is possible to do a top set just using this double LP.
Every track is typical Beltram style, raw hard NY techno funk.
From beginning to end this album hits hard like a train, not a weak track on it.
Still sounds excellent in 2006.