Septic III is another cut from the same successful format that gave Dependent success with the previous Septic compilations. Again, the formula is a CD packed with tracks from both new and established acts, focusing on tracks and remixes that are rare or previously unreleased. That said, Septic III slants more toward previews of newer artists than previous Septic releases. Even some of the more established names are generally artists with only one album release (such as Ivory Frequency and Seabound). Even within the general flavor of hard electro, Septic III includes alternatives: Babyland refreshingly avoids distorted vocals and plays with light, sharp synth voices; Sulpher opts for short electro support for a very coldwave style guitar; Stochastic Theory provides a sparser, smoother synth pop-flavored electro and vocals. It is not all earth-shattering, but Septic III covers a range of electro without settling or getting stale in any one mood. Again, the Septic compilation achieves what it sets out to do, providing an overview of the electro scene that is far from the baseline standard acts, while giving a diverse and quality listening experience from the opening bar to the closing loops. The diminished presence of established acts means that Septic III may disappoint those expecting more familiar territory, but Septic III is more about packaging a refreshing view of the genre than repackaging the widely known. Perhaps the only complaint is that there is too much content on the CD -- just check that the overburnt 79 minutes will play happily in older audio CD players. ~ Theo Kavadias
