Everyone knows how much I love UK Hardcore and Happy Hardcore, it's not a hidden secret. I am a Happy Hardcore fanatic since 1994/1995, and am an avid listener to the 90s sound to this day. Not so much the UK side of Happy Hardcore though, but over the years (90s), a lot of the songs did make an appearance on European compilations. But here, in the UK, they had their own, very successful series called Bonkers. It became essential listening music for those that wanted to hear the coolest Hardcore anthems. It died back in the early 00s, but it still has a massive legacy to uphold, and fans are still talking/discussing the old albums.
The CD collection is well known, and even I purchased a few of them over the years. But never had the opportunity to have the whole collection. At one stage, due to their demand (and me living in the Netherlands), I had to get them imported from Australia, which made it a very expensive thing to do. A lot of money was spent, but with most things, you either collect them all, or you start, and never finish. The latter, that was me.
To be fair, I wasn't a huge fan of the early albums. Some albums did work for me, but it wasn't always my thing. I always seem to dislike one of the discs, because of the songs selected, or the vibe wasn't there. But trust me, I know the importance of this collection, hence why I am talking about it today.
Syntax Error made this tribute mix, commemorating the first Bonkers CD ever, which was released back in 1996. That's nearly 30 years ago! That's insane. And even though it's an oldie, the tracks don't sound old. Well, most of them still sound fresh, one or two might sound a bit dated. But Syntax Error made this mix, because the album was the first Happy Hardcore album he had ever bought. Memories, that's nice. But are the tracks nice?
Alas Smith & Sharkey - Truth
Force & Styles - All Systems Go
Hixxy - Thumper
Hopscotch - Midnight Express
Dougal & Eruption - Party Time
DJ Ham - Is Anybody Out There
A Sense Of Summer - On Top (Hixxy Remix)
Seb - Rainbow Island (Sharkey Remix)
Sy & Sharkey - Feel The Heat
Druid & Sharkey - Bonkers Anthem
Eruption - Let The Music
The Vampire - Teknostorm (Sharkey Remix)
DJ Brisk - Airhead (SMD Remix)
Druid & Sharkey - Pumpin
Hixxy & Bananaman - Forever
Dr Who - Love Of My Life
If you are a raver that lived throughout the 90s, this tracklist must make you feel happier, and excited. To be fair though, these songs were heard everywhere, and have appeared on not just Bonkers, but on thousands of other compilations. And they are played at events to this day. That's how much they are loved.
I am still in love with 90s Happy Hardcore, and I find it amazing that people keep it alive. Syntax Error's mix contains the right amount of records, and most will appreciate his selection. To me, the selection is great, and there's one track in here, I can remember hearing for the first time, back in the 90s, on a Happy Hardcore compilation. That song is high on my all time favourite Happy Hardcore list. It's 'Let The Music' by Eruption. Still an all time classic.
The mix is great. It takes me back to the 90s, and that's always a positive thing. But my question to you is, what's your favourite record of this mix? Anything you like? Or is this not your cup of tea? Too old, too happy, too boring?
It's a nice mix, and if you like the early Happy Hardcore sound, this is a mix you should check out!!
DJ: Syntax Error
Genre/Style: UK Hardcore, Happy Hardcore
Mix Info: Syntax Error - Bonkers 1 Tribute
Length Mix: 00:59:53
Tracks: 16 (sixteen)
Download/Listen (via Soundcloud): CLICK HERE
File Size: 137 MB
File Type: mp3
Audio: Stereo
Bit Rate: 320kbps
Release Year: 2024
More Information: Syntax Error - Soundcloud Channel