Hammock is an interesting collection of downbeat dub grooves from Synergetic Records. Compiled by Swhe Dagon and Dub’Acan, the CD features 9 previously unreleased tracks.

Dub’ Acan is better known as DJ Acan, a Vienna dj best known in the psy-trance area, and who is also the head honch at Synergetic Records.

On Hammock, the musicians explore an area of electronica rooted in dub that is a refreshing alternative to standard trance/techno fare. The tracks feature dub-style audio manipulation and beats combined with electronic effects. Highlights of the CD include Chaos’ Spectral Skunk, and the beyond laid-back Acan track, Siesta.

This is music for kicking back – the Hammock title and cover imagery are a perfect match for the tracks. Interesting synth work and echo effects add interest to the music, but this is more a reflection of the artist’s craftsmanship, rather than the focus of the music. Instead, the CD is an ideal soundtrack for a lazy day in the sun, or an island party.

The tracks can be previewed at the Synergetics site.

Tracks:

• The Poffs – Cloud Nine
• Freelander – Easy Peasy
• Shwe Dagon – Ganja Dub
• Spectral Skunk – Chaos
• In-Waves – Rainbow
• Shwe Dagon – Macum Dub
• Timewarp – Mix Maestro
• Dub’Acan – Siesta
• Ovnimoon – Message