Ludovic Navarre's 1995 "Boulevard" album remains one of the landmark albums in the genesis of the French dance scene. Assembled from a trio of EPs it showcased a deep house sound that utilised gospel and blues samples to take the sound right back to its roots. Moby was to repeat the trick with 1999's impressive Play. From Detroit To St Germain is another collection of 12 cuts lifted from the "Motherland", "Mezzotinto" and "Tolerance" EPs Navarre made under the monikers St Germain, Deepside and Nuages which once again display his vivid grasp of Afro American sounds and dance floor dynamics. Standout is the vibrant feelgood "Alabama Blues" with its brilliantly constructed chorus mixing Lightnin's Hopkins vocal with uplifting female cut ups, stomping beat and flute effects. These are superior sounds created by a master. --Mike Pattenden