Often an album is purchased based on a recommendation. Other times it is the reputation of the artist or the tracks within that draw interest. Sometimes we hear a song on the radio, television or in a club and search desperately to track it down, perhaps uncovering a mix compilation or an unknown artist album. But then, vary rarely, something rather special comes along. It may not be anthem from start to finish, and the chances are it would drift past most without even a hint of recognition. But delve a little deeper and you will uncover a hidden magic, an aural gem, a masterpiece of technology and sound, in perfect equilibrium. It wouldn’t require a national hero to accomplish something so deep and underground, yet so uplifting and moving. But to achieve such flawlessness takes technical ability and musical skill that only the greats possess. Step forward Sasha, and the follow up to the epically beautiful compilation “Involver”, this time entitled “Invol2ver”.

Now the first in the series started me on my quest for electronic euphoria beyond the realms of the trance sound. It was the year 2004, and one of the hardest working men in dance music had released a mix entitled “Involver”. The first listen drifted by rather uneventfully. A few tracks caught my attention and I decided to dive back in for another listen. It hit me; I was listening to history in the making. The mixing style was ahead of its time; Sasha had managed to incorporate so many elements of tracks together so seamlessly. Each mix was breathtaking. It certainly wasn’t a mix to fill the dancefloor, nor was it a mix I would play with friends whilst down at the beach. But it has a time and place all to its own. Incorporating sounds from the ‘Global Underground’ experience with some of Sasha’s very own remixes, the result was superb. I became aware of another sense, another state of mind that I hadn’t felt with trance before.

Fast forward to 2008, and the latest offering has already begun to prove that Sasha can surpass what I thought was unbeatable. “Invol2ver” moves effortlessly onwards. Deep progressive house is the closest sub-genre label that could be vaguely used to brand this style. But there are so many elements that Sasha brings to this mix, that it is unjust to categorise with such zealous terminology. I do not wish to break down this review into a track by track analysis, as each offering compliments the former, and the future. You blink and thirty minutes has passed, and you are a million miles away from your worries, fears and stress. The layers rise and fall, the basslines progress deeply, whilst pads whisk you into a dreamy state. Sasha continues to inject a ‘new lease of life’ throughout; key changes so seamless, vocals and sounds faultlessly placed, and effects that continue to lift the mix. Melodies and percussion rise and fall, but never deteriorate in quality. I struggle to think of mixes or CD’s that have been mixed, or even compiled with such accuracy and attention to detail. Every hi-hat has its place, every kick and every note has been selected and positioned for a reason. Alongside all this is the addition of a few vocals that bring harmony that is not over used, yet not sparsely found. A balance that keeps you interested yet does not detract from the epic musical construction and the stunning production value. These are vocals that Sasha has worked his magic with and they certainly do not disappoint. His remixes of tracks by artists such as M83 and the vocals of American indie artist Ray LaMontagne and the UK's Adam Parker show just how highly regarded he is in the music scene.

I cannot think of an album which brings so much to the listening experience in such a subtle package. As I mentioned earlier this mix will probably pass by most trance fans, let alone the general public. But it is here that you find a sense of ‘real trance’. And this is not necessarily down to the genre classification, but more to do with the affect the music has on your mind, body and soul. It takes you deeper, sending you into a ‘state of trance’ to coin Armin’s expression. A darkened room and a few speakers or a bright city and a pair of headphones - Wherever you choose, this album has so much to offer and it can take you anywhere you want. And unlike “Involver” I could actually completely loose the plot on a dancefloor to “Invol2ver”. Once again, not in a ‘hands in the air’ scenario, but literally eyes closed, body moving to the bass, thoughts racing to the melodies situation. Key changes build, build and build some more before being unleashed with such astounding efficiency.