Soulwax
Most Of The Remixes

The Soulwax return once again to the decks, offering us two remix CDs, the first with standalone tracks (for DJ only, I’d say), and the second with mixed tracks as only a few know how to do.

Initially indie, then turning to electronic under the pseudonym of 2 Many DJ's, the duo from Ghent rose to prominence thanks to a series of compilations (As Heard on Radio) where they daringly mix Nirvana, Daft Punk, New Order, Velvet Underground, and Kylie Minogue: the risk was to end up with a bland mix, but the result is a fresh fruit medley!

Our artists are distinguished by a superb remix technique, a rock-inspired, playful, and conscious approach that is never pointless, and a variety of remixed songs that range from one genre to another.

These elements are maintained in their latest effort too.

Here are some highlights:

-"Daft Punk Is Playing At My House" by LCD Soundsystem: James Murphy's vocals are interspersed with samples of the French duo's hits in a crescendo reminiscent of Rollin' & Strachin'; brilliant

- Robbie Williams' voice in "Lovelight" gets swallowed by synths worthy of a rave party, leaving only “Do it Again”

- the "wall of guitars" in "Can't Get You Out Of My Head" by Minogue, very rock

- the best remix of "Robot Rock" by Daft Punk

Among these names also find space: Sugababes, Klaxons, Justice, Hot Chip, Felix da Housecat, and Tiga.

The very long title (which I find unnecessary to mention) occupies the entire cover and merely explains the origin of the remixes. The minimal aesthetic is thus a manifesto of their intentions: no frills, let the music speak, and above all, we have fun doing it! And it's this attitude that distinguishes them from many other DJs who focus more on looks than on the quality of their music.

The album is highly recommended for those who love electronic music that I would dare to say is alternative and self-referential, doesn't take itself too seriously but knows how to entertain and most importantly, makes you dance. For the less accustomed, I'm aware that over time it might get tiresome: after all, not everyone likes fruit salad...