Dial marks its 25th anniversary with Dial25 III, a commanding eight-track various artists compilation that pulses with the label’s enduring legacy. Established in 2000 by Lawrence and Carsten Jost initially in Hamburg before rooting in Berlin, Dial has shaped the electronic landscape through its blend of deep house, techno minimalism, and emotive dub, building a devoted underground following for releases that prioritize mood and subtlety over bombast. This installment gathers heavyweights like Joey Anderson, Atomig Moog, Reedale Rise, Ben Kaczor, and DJ Sodeyama, delivering a sequence of cuts tailored for discerning DJs and fans immersed in house and techno’s shadowy corners.
Joey Anderson opens with Florence and closes with Ancient Tower, bookending the set with his trademark brooding intensity that draws from dub echoes and hypnotic repetition. Little Hope follows, deepening the immersion with layers that unfold gradually, ideal for those long, tension-filled builds in club environments. Atomig Moog’s Density packs a concentrated drive, threading intricate patterns that lock in crowds craving precision amid the haze.
Reedale Rise contributes Cool Breeze, a track that sweeps through with airy yet insistent grooves, evoking breezy warehouse transitions. Ben Kaczor doubles up with Abrakadabra and Drunk Moon, the former conjuring magical rhythmic spells and the latter swaying with nocturnal allure, both primed for afterhours exploration. DJ Sodeyama’s Chaos injects unpredictable energy, twisting familiar house elements into something fiercely alive and unpredictable.
Dial25 III embodies the raw energy of the underground, where artists like these thrive on pushing boundaries within house and techno’s frameworks. The compilation flows as a cohesive journey, each track earning its place through meticulous craftsmanship that resonates in dimly lit spaces from Berlin basements to global circuits. It’s a celebration of Dial’s quarter-century run, underscoring why the label remains a cornerstone for producers and selectors who demand depth and drive in equal measure.
