Full On Vol.2

Even the most devoted Todd Edwards follower would be hard-pressed to triangulate what differentiates the second volume of Full On from the first. The New Jersey-based producer again stitches together a number of recent highlights from his vinyl releases, thus making his work more accessible for those who don't dig through the new release section every other week. The only clear advantage this holds over Full On, Vol. 1 is an increased proficiency with vocal samples. Here, Edwards plays around with them like a master, weaving them and juggling them in and out of the fabric of the productions to mind-boggling effect. Otherwise, few wrinkles are added to his approach. When the surprises do occur -- like the acoustic guitar and flute breakdown in "Thank You" -- they're practically seismic. Another plus is that there are a few more instances when you feel as if you're not hearing the same beat; Edwards seems more confident in allowing those chewy basslines to seep through. While just a little underwhelming when put up against Prima Edizione and Todd Edwards' Nervous Tracks, Full On, Vol. 2 is further evidence of the producer's unique, innovative contributions to house music. And in these throwback-reliant times, that's saying a great deal. (Unlike Full On, Vol. 1, this is a single-disc set, without an accompanying disc of unmixed tracks.) ~ Andy Kellman|