Various Artists: Jet Society

Back in the ’80s, the Style Council were making international soul music for a generation of Euro-sharp, cappuccino sipping, cigarette-puffing, shaken-not-stirred bohos not yet born. Songs like “Paris Match,” “Long Hot Summer” were misunderstood until the Serge Gainsbourg revival and emergence of the Air-Dimitri of Paris-Paris Is Burning new wave proved them prophetic.

Though based in DC, Thievery Corporation’s future-cosmopolitan albums, compilations and outside dance hit remixes have placed them in the global vanguard. Jet Society, TC’s compilation of slinky new acts from Europe/Brazil confirms that all those props and frequent-flyer miles were put to good use. The overall groove is jazzysexybossacrazycool, the highlights Teresa’s “Lisboa A Noite,” Grupo Batuque’s “Brasilieros E Ingleses,” Cordara Orchestra’s “Jet Society.”

Originally Published April 1, 2000