The very first Disco Not Disco compilation finally reissued! Originally released in 2000, this seminal comp acted as a gateway drug to the world of leftfield disco classics to many that would not have been exposed to this sound otherwise (this reviewer included). Here, veteran selectors Dave Lee (aka Joey Negro) and Sean P put together the perfect snapshot of the early 80's NYC party scene via an expertly curated tracklist reflecting the open-minded and forward-thinking culture that prevailed at legendary venues like The Paradise Garage and The Loft. Genre didn't matter so much as vibe, so it was not uncommon to hear the lines between rock, reggae, funk, and disco, be blurred beyond recognition (hence "disco not disco"). Includes several downtown essentials like Liquid Liquid's "Cavern" (you know, the one with that bassline), Was Not Was' funky trip "Wheel Me Out," Common Sense's Sting-penned favorite "Voices In My Head," and Yoko Ono's screechy disco oddity "Walking On Thin Ice" - plus Arthur Russell-related favorites like Dinosaur's "Kiss Me Again" and Loose Joint's party starter/ender "Tell You (Today)." Triple vinyl 2019 repress, recommended.

• black triple vinyl pressing
• original release year: 2000
• music label: Strut 2019

reviewed by Larry's Sweatband 09/2019