Various - The 2004 Annual

Another quality release from the Aussie division of Ministry Of Sound, this was (or should I say "is") amongst the first that focuses on the so-called rebirth of Electroclash, as evident on Disc One (mixed by the ever-talented Mark Dynamix). Indeed, 2003 was a big year for tweaking that 80's New Wave sound into something the casual listener could enjoy. Consequently, this compilation finds it's ideal audience with both contemporary clubbers plus the discohoppers from the decade of big hair and hairspray. It even manages to kick up some genuine 80's moments with a reworking of INXS' classic "Need You Tonight" along with a poke at some obscure tracks like "Stand Back" and "Planet Funk", the former that made a minor impact on the club charts and the latter that began life as part of the early Hip-Hop/Electro scene.

Disc Two finds it's comfort zone in John Course's preferred style of Funky House. Possessing a delightfully summery slash Ibizian flavour, it's of stark contrast with Disc One, which itself is quite dark and almost menacing at times. Not as enjoyable or fresh-sounding as Mark Dynamix' effort, it still contains some memorable moments courtesy of the the infamous "Your Rude (Get Fucked)" and "Fix My Sink", by Bad Cabbage and DJ Sneak respectively.

A big hit on the Australian charts, it was the biggest-selling Ministry release to date and it found its way into many a car with a $2,000-plus sound system.