Two compilations, two media for a warm heart – gladfroh – electronic music from Leipzig

We were particularly impressed by two compilations from Leipzig in the second half of 2025. And not just because of the promising tracklist, but above all visually.

Because the crew of the Conne Island party series “Electric Island” and Vaya, the label with its own radio show by our Hey Hey podcast host Sebastian, each gave us a very special collection of tracks to touch, put on the shelf, put in the dusty boom box or for direct use when DJing. One medium has celebrated its 50th birthday for a while now (2013), the other medium has dominated the clubs for several years. These are the cassette (Vaya) and the USB stick (Electric Island).

Now – as so often – the question arises: is it necessary? A medium with music when everything can be easily streamed or downloaded these days? The answer is quite rational: No, you don't need that! Tape lovers will immediately be able to provide the appropriate “Pro Tape” arguments. For example, the “different”, more analogue, slightly noisy sound, the perceived higher quality compared to digital and probably the longer half-life of the music. Because the tape will probably live on the shelf for a while after purchase and will certainly be played one or two times.

It is certainly not wrong to bring the concept of nostalgia into play here. The cassette is so loaded with pop culture that it feels like nothing can scratch its image. Most recently she even had a prominent appearance in the film “Perfect Days” by Wim Wenders. The protagonist hangs out in record stores and is a tape collector. It seems kind of weird, but somehow it makes you want to buy a wall of tapes like that. And to consume something without having your actions analyzed on the Internet and being flooded with targeted advertising or algorithmically determined music selections.

There is also a lot of nostalgia in the first compilation release of the “Electric Island” party series, which has been established for two decades. Of course, the stick doesn't have as many years under its belt as the cassette and is quite practical. It can be further filled with your own music and has been the medium of choice for all CDJ DJs for years.

The stick from Iceland is delivered in an attractive case (practical) and in a self-stamped cover (nice). You will also receive an envelope with selected pictures of the event from the “Moods” section. I have to admit, this package got me straight away. Just heartwarming. At Vaya, the “Disco Orange” tape comes in a classic case and with colorful and funny illustrations. By the way, there is also a matching shirt.

The music selection on both compilations, from house, dubby sounds, to breaks and ambient, is largely local and consistently fantastic – Varum, DJ Balaton, Robyrt Hecht, Siggatunez, Zacharias, Hal & Perm, Karo, R!ke, etc.

One thing can be said: There is a lot of love and, above all, a lot of good tracks in both compilations. And what’s more, always: Support your local label and event series! Maybe you need one or two media after all – or it would make a very nice Christmas present.