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Track 1 (Radio Edit - 3:09) is an
overtly sounding theatrical cut, with lots of emphasis on string solos. This melodic
production nicely showcases the essence and soul that Brightman represents so well with
her Soprano overture. Track 2 (ATB Remix - 8:33) ATB takes on his trance journey next with
a smooth beat that will seize your attention from the first note. Although ATB spices up
things a bit with it's shifting grooves, the vocal production hasn't changed much, leaving
the listener with the urge to sing faster, but only the beat remains true to the desire. Track
3 (Delerium Remix - 3:13) is a sort of faux, nu school ambient jazz number that is
reminiscent of the middle 70's before rock really took off. Track 4 (Paralyzer Mix - 6:06)
is the stand out cut of this mix with it's bevy of oscillating vocal samples and frantic
percussion intro, which sets the stage for this multi-dimensional mix. Knowing the true
vocal range of a singer like Brightman - it must be difficult to "dirty" the
vocals somewhat, but this mix keeps the energy flowing over and over. ATB rounds out the
set of "A Whiter Shade of Pale" with Track 5 (ATB Radio Edit - 3:58) and leaves
us with a sleazy, pulsating bassline and melody that will make you want to conquer the
rhythm.
Track 6 is the first mix of "A Question of Honor" (Radio Edit - 5:19) starts out
with Brightman singing in her signature operatic voice. The vocal is suddenly dropped over
a shuffling beat, mixed with a touch of snappy percussion and even a rock inspired guitar
riff. The backing choir is somewhat over the top and the music borders on the cusp of a
rock musical. Track 7 (Pech Remix - 5:18) injects a bit of "Las Vegas MGM"
testosterone into the jumble - using snippets of boxing matches throughout the
song
"and in this corner"! Used around deep drum lines and Brightman's
cleverly inserted vocals, the ploy somehow works. Track 8 (Knock Out Mix - 8:15) reminds
me most of a ditty that might have been inspired by Prince's "Erotic City" many
years ago. It has that nasty, moody attitude that glides through the night and makes me
reminisce about what we did before teen pop took over Top 40 radio. Essentially, the intro
of this cut is the only part that probably will work for dance fans. The second half of
the song is spersed with Brightman's vocals, which are sung primarily in opera, but all
the same it works for me.
Track 9 (Damage Control Mix - 6:04) bounces right into a Cyndi Lauper-esque vocal riff -
pumping in at 148 bpm, this Italian house sounding mix has taken on an almost chipmunk
sound as the vocals have been sped up too much or not stretched enough. Couple this with
lots of breaks and a high-energy keyboard trilogy - your head is likely to spin. Track 10
(Tom Lord-Alge Mix - 6:39) is a sleek ditty that will make your head bounce up and down
without even realizing it. Alge uses plenty of panning effects for both music and vocals
to make his point and drives it home well. Sound samples of older stuff, infused with
spine shivering opera notes by Brightman morphs into what sounds like one mean gospel
anthem.
This soundscape of brilliant remixes are bound to make you twist your torso on the floor.
Brightman is cleverly infiltrating the dance scene with her unique sound. DJ's out there
take note, if you like Emma Shapplin and her brand, give this collection of crowd
motivators a try! |
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