Back for a Fourth Cup.
The Groove | Boston, MA | 01/24/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Brought to you by the same people who are responsible for the "Paris Lounge" and "Hotel Costes" compilations, along comes the fourth entry in the "Saint Germain Des Pres Cafe." Now, it's been said before, but it obviously bears repeating: this has nothing to do with the Saint Germain that released the "Tourist" album. This is a mix of French-inspired jazz with various touches of downtempo electronica and bossa nova. I was actually pretty surprised that they released a fourth album and I didn't even know it was out until I stumbled upon it at a local record shop I frequent. Those who already own the prior three collections will have no reason to be disappointed with this one. The 19 tracks here offer a rich sampling of cafe lounge that's as tasty and as lively as a double espresso. I really liked Koop's breezy "Fuoco Fauto" as well as Metropolitain Jazz Affair's "Yunowhathislifeez" and the percussion-heavy "Equal" by Lunar Chipmunk featuring Oscar. Other cuts of note are "Nattergalen" by Bobby Hughes Combination and "Swoundosophy" by Infracom, both of which are excellent. The only dud is "Suddenly" by Matthew Herbert, which doesn't fit into the CD's jazzy theme and sticks out like a sore thumb. This is otherwise a must-buy for those who already have the prior three volumes and want to add a new twist to their downtempo collection. Grade: B+."
This one disappointed me
John M. Harby | San Diego, CA | 04/17/2004
(3 out of 5 stars)
"It may not disappoint you however. I liked the strong fusion of jazz, house, techno and latin found in the first three compilations. This one has more vocals, definitely underline the lounge here. I am an instrumentalist myself so I tend to favor the instrumentals with the cool beats that the first three releases featured."
Track Listings (19) - Disc #1
