Various

Following in the footsteps of their previous compilation for Darla, the people at Blisscent have collected 15 new tracks inspired by the British shoegazer scene of the early ’90s, which is often dubbed "dream pop.” Compiled by Losing Today mastermind Nelson Ferreria, the net has been cast a bit wider this time around, and there is a bit more diversity in the sound of the artists, which at times results in some odd surprises. The first track, by Silverman, for instance, sounds more like Tindersticks than the audio world spawned by Creation records. There are also a few tracks that are a bit on the heavy side, edging unpleasantly closer to nu-metal. However, for those seeking the sonic ghosts of My Bloody Valentine, Slowdive and the Cocteau Twins, there are plenty of good moments, like the Meeting Places’ "Same Lies As Yesterday,” Stars of Stage and Screen’s "Sliver Memories,” and Midsummer’s "Silent Blue.” Canada’s A Northern Chorus find their way onto the bill with one of the most gentle tracks on the album, "Let the Parrots Speak for Themselves.” It’s a strange mix, given that the quiet songs sound a bit precious when contrasted with the noise-heavy anthems, but this is still a great way to get a bird’s eye view of this growing genre of artists, and hear the directions in which people are taking this style of music.