13 tracks. Running time 74:22 The Essence is Gary Judd, Nick Ryan, and Jay Reynolds. The eponymous The Essence is their first album, bringing together tracks which have previously been released on various artist compilation albums such as Spiritual Chillout and Sahara Lounge. Their style is laid back ambient/chillout based around rhythms and grooves, with a handful of tracks containing vocals. Instrumentation is a combination of keyboards, drums, percussion, guitars, and piano to name the most apparent. When the first track “A Chill Wind” started up the dreamy echoey strummed electric guitars reminded me a little of the Hammock sound. Then a drum and percussion based rhythm joins in along with an excited yet at the same time restrained melody expressing happiness. For me the most magical track has got to be “Wunderland” which often has me reaching for the repeat button. The soothing sounds of running burbling water and distant animal calls open up to a slightly sassy drum beat. Then a melody is created by warm sounds something like sampled and treated brass instruments; this expresses joy and contentment - a mood formed by a beautiful natural setting we can easily imagine. Most of the music exudes an aura of places like Ibiza where partygoers enjoy upbeat nights and easygoing days, so we find a mix of relaxed and fast upbeat pieces. A track aimed at the evening and the dance floor is “Refugee” where a sexy Asian sounding female voice sings quasi-vocals against sensual rhythms and insistent beats which lure your body into moving in sync with the music. The Essence is ideal for summertime listening. But at anytime it will mentally transport you to sunny seaside climes where there's a beer or cocktail and lovely scenery in front of you, and there's nothing to do except enjoy yourself and soak up the atmosphere.