Fragma
Toca
Strictly Rhythm
After experiencing amazing success overseas, Europe’s Fragma is bringing the US of A what is possibly one of the best house albums ever. German lead singer Daniela Klein (Damae) is pushing Fragma’s image and music to the top with an attitude that suits every aspect of club life to a tee. The first single off of the album Toca is “Toca’s Miracle” which is by itself, an outstanding dance tune. Both strong and sexy, it’s impossible to sit still mentally or physically in the presence of this song. Remixed for Essential Dance 2000 by DJ Skribble (of the MTV fame), this fiery song lends itself to all sorts of dance DJ’s and leaves behind in its wake an ecstatic group of moving listeners. The second single off Toca, “You Are Alive,” is one of the more predictable songs on the CD; while great, don’t skip past the other songs to get right to this one. For the perfect summer beach party anthem, turn on the bubbly “Everytime You Need Me,” to add some extra juice to your nightly aerobics class, “Move On” or “Do You Really Feel It” will do the trick, and to get up the nerve to finally clean out your mountainous closet, don’t even move until you put on “Reach Out” or the campy “Magic.” Even though it’s not continuous, this CD is one that doesn’t enhance atmosphere, it creates its own. Toca is the musical equivalent of fluffy women’s magazines; so fun and upbeat it almost makes you feel guilty. Almost.
Strictly Rhythm, 920 Broadway, 14th Floor, New York, NY 10010
