Virtual Dreams II Ambient Explorations in The House & Techno Age Japan 1993-1999

"Virtual Dreams II: Ambient Explorations in The House & Techno Age, Japan 1993-1999" is a compilation that delves into the unique intersection of ambient music with house and techno in Japan during the 1990s. Assembled by record store owner Eiji Taniguchi and the late Music From Memory co-founder Jamie Tiller, this collection narrates the rise of Japanese rave culture in the 1990s. Emerging when genres like house and techno were seeking reinvention, Japanese artists began focusing on ambient sounds for a more introspective dance experience. The British duo the KLF and Warp's Artificial Intelligence series heavily influenced Japanese producers, who integrated ambient soundscapes from the outset. Pioneers like Ken Ishii set the tone with a slower, cerebral approach, leading to the establishment of techno in Japan and international recognition. Key contributors included artists like Dub Squad, Buddahstick Transparent, and Yuji Takenouchi, whose works exhibited innovative ambient and dub influences. Despite starting with fewer venues, the scene quickly grew, culminating in major outdoor festivals. This collection tells the unique story of a dance culture deeply rooted in ambient explorations rather than traditional dancefloor energy.
 
This compilation features ambient, chill-out, and intelligent techno from leading labels such as Sublime Records, Transonic Records, Syzygy Records, Frogman Records, and Form@ Records, as well as ambient deviations from Japanese house producers. Much of the music featured has only ever been released on CD. The album is available in 2xLP and 2xCD formats, as well as digitally.