A theory of sound
DeAnna and James Cool, founders of BasicLux Records, which has its share of gay support, release a 'new style lounge' compilation CD.

James and DeAnna Cool live up to their name, with a new compilation disc, 'New Sound Theory,' that has a 'hip flair.' (Photo by Ben Rose/Urban Photographics)

By Arjan Timmermans

DEANNA AND JAMES Cool fully lived up to their last name when they founded BasicLux Records in 2001. The couple envisioned a creative platform to release their own breed of "new style lounge" and other electronica.

"A lot of people might recognize lounge tunes from the background music in stores where they shop, or where they get their hair done," DeAnna Cool tells the Blade.

"We'd like to think our music is Pottery Barn-worthy with a hip flair," her husband adds with a smile.

One of the first releases from their independent music label is the compilation album, "New Sound Theory, Volume 1," which was fully produced by the Cools.

The record features an eclectic compilation of lush melodies, exotic rhythms and global grooves. Musicians from Atlanta, New York, Chicago and Vancouver stepped out of their regional obscurity to submit tunes to the project. Among them were Chris Brann, KemeticJust, Auricle, Lenny B., and Brian Ogden.

The CD is not (yet) available through mass distribution channels, but can be found at select D.C. stores such as DJ Hut, Now! Music and Fashion and Tower Records. The label has received support from the gay community and one of the project's investors is a well-known business leader in Atlanta's gay community.

Lounge music has captivated urban chic club-goers since the 1950s and '60s.

Swing and big band greats such as Esquivel, Herb Alpert and Henry Mancini defined the genre, which was rediscovered in the 1990s by DJs as a response to the hectic hustle and bustle of techno music at the opposite side of the electronica spectrum.

FOR MORE INFO

'New Sound Theory, Volume 1' Various Artists BasicLux Records, 2003 www.newsoundtheory.com

IN THE OVERLY ABUNDANT, diffuse variety of chill-out and house music, it is hard for many to distinguish between the subtleties that make up style differences. James Cool acknowledges that, but explains that the music on "New Sound Theory" is uniquely different for its authentic vibes that have deep-rooted soul and world beat influences.

"That is why we like to call our music 'new style lounge.' It is our term for an amalgamation of musical styles that combine the ethic of the original lounge music while incorporating complementary contemporary elements such as acid jazz, deep house and chill out nu jazz," he says.

"We recognized that a lot of chill-out compilation CDs often feature the same tunes," DeAnna Cool adds. "We wanted to do something unique by compiling a set of tracks that could energize and relax at the same time."

She says with a laugh, "We are both pretty hyper people and we found that we needed something that could balance both."

This album is indeed anything but a mix of what is already available. The record includes 16 tracks, which are right for every mood. Listeners are taken on a tranquil journey ranging from Chris Brann's "Between Them" with sparkling piano hooks to the infatuating tribal beats of Auricle's "Musique," and from the tingling electro textures on Stormchild's "Flow" to the jazzy "El Sol de Brazil" by KemeticJust.

A peppy addition to the record's lineup is Madison Park's quasi pop beats "Who's Got The Time" and "My Personal Moon," performed by DeAnna herself with Madonna-esque vocals. Slightly out of context is the louder, breakbeat-infused "Summer Daze" from Puzzle. But then again this album balances energy and tranquility, so its presence can be justified.

Vocal arrangements on the record are scarce, emphasizing the importance of beats and uncomplicated, soothing melodies to set a welcoming ambiance. This CD is like musical wallpaper, which tickles the senses without overpowering the soul.