4x4=12, Virgin ***
Innovation comes easily for Joel Zimmerman. Multiple Grammy nominations, awards and various accolades attest to the Canadian's skills as a producer and DJ, but his third album won't be to every dance music fan's taste. While the likes of the hypnotic I Saidand Cthulhu Sleepsmay appeal to spellbound clubbers, their repetitive blueprints end in maddening dead ends. Happily, they're offset by some fantastically creative guest appearances. Sofi's contributions to two tracks call to mind Uffie and Justice's alliance, while Raise Your Weapon, featuring Icelandic singer Greta Svabo Bech, begins as a crystalline piano-based tune before descending into superbly nightmarish dubstep, loaded with Aphex Twin-style unease. The mathematical title is a giveaway; this album will frustrate you as much as it'll make you want to dance.
See deadmau5.com
Download tracks: Raise Your Weapon, Animal Rights