The third in the unofficial series that began with 1999"s Decks, EFX & 909, Richie Hawtin"s Transitions is another scramble of minimalist techno and cutting-edge audio technology, delivered with the DJ"s usual masterly touch. As one might expect from the title, the record is part of Hawtin"s continuing assault on the notion of songs as individual entities. From beginning to end, Transitions toys with the whole idea of beginnings and endings. Hundreds of samples dissolve like bits of spice in a thick, sticky stew as Hawtin makes use of the latest studio innovations that have come along since 2001"s DE9: Closer to the Edit. To that end, if possible, listen to this record in full 5.1 Surround Sound. Hawtin has always had a flair for ambience; it"s one of the things that have allowed him to get away with his aggressively sparse approach. Here, the ambience is woven into the record"s texture so deeply, it can only be fully appreciated via full immersion. Even with a fancy stereo system, Transitions may feel a little chilly to the uninitiated. Blips and tiny pieces of melody echo through a chasm of cold, mostly empty space. Set aside some time for it, though, in a darkened room with a glass of good Cabernet, and you"ll get the idea. Also note: The package includes both a "shortened"74-minute cd mix, as well as a 96-minute DVD version. --Matthew Cooke