Spaces, the first full-length from EDM band Mixhell, blends sharp beats with some interesting synth work and makes for an entertaining experience, although not entirely fulfilling. Iggor Cavalera of Brazilian metal band Sepultura brings his rhythms to the front and center, and his ferocity is what gives Spaces its punch. His DJ wife, Laima Leyton, handles synth duties admirably, as well. “Intergalactic” opens with a gradual rise of energy, tight loops, and Cavalera’s kinetic drumming. The unfeeling female vocals of “Mind Drop” repeating the title through an intercom-like filter gives the track a distinctly late-90s groove that proves dancy but a tad predictable. Hyperactive synthesizers, driving drumbeats, and female whispers make “The Way” sound like a track from Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ It’s Blitz. “Internal” is the most distinctly retro track on the album with its analogue tones filling out a murky groove and “White Ropes” lets Cavalera show off the heavy rhythms he does best. “Daria” showcases a refreshing blend of live bass, guitar, and drums with more eccentric synth tones and makes for an understated funk track that stands out as the album’s highlight. Spaces delivers plenty of hooky and danceable numbers but it also feels very of-the-moment – a record worth hearing but one that could easily get lost in the crowd of electronic releases. (Boysnoize, boysnoize.com) Matthew Dyck