Release Label: Nebula
Release Code: NEBT 082
Release Date: 26th September 2005
Introduction:
After the release of the albums “Just Be” and “Parade of the Athletes” in 2004 and successful DJing stints at the Olympic Games and Disneyland Paris, the name “Tiësto” continues to be one of the most dominant forces in trance music. In the summer of 2005 a number of these tracks have been the subject of remix projects by many artists, resulting in an iTunes exclusive album release containing the results.
For the vinyl buyers, a limited edition picture disc has also been made available, containing two tracks from the Just Be album. The first is a Junkie XL remix of UR, with the second being Leama & Moor’s interpretation of A Tear in the Open.
UR (Junkie XL Air Guitar Mix)
This remix actually first appeared on Tiësto’s In Search of Sunrise 4 compilation album, released in May. UR contains the vocals of Matt Hales, better known for his work as lead singer of Aqualung. His voice is one that you’ll either love or hate. For me, it’s a bit of an acquired taste. On first listen the vocals are very unconvincing and dull, however they do grow on me.
One of the highlights of 2004 for me was Junkie XL’s remix of Sarah McLachlan’s World On Fire, and Tom Holkenborg certainly doesn’t disappoint with his effort here. Those familiar with his work will immediately recognise his style, a well-crafted track with rock influences in abundance. It is unfortunate that he does not produce more, or perhaps he is a great believer in the philosophy of quality over quantity.
Despite the mix lasting over 11 minutes the changes in the melody layers throughout the track maintain the listener’s interest, and overall is a very solid rework.
A Tear in the Open (Leama & Moor Remix)
The original of this track for me started out with such promise but yielded nothing but disappointment, as Tiësto’s tech influences tarnished a beautiful celtic-style vocal. However, on discovering that Leama & Moor had worked on a remix, my hopes were raised.
It is easy to see why Leama & Moor strike such an affectionate chord with many fans within the trance community. With their outstanding efforts on Brian Eno’s An Ending (Ascent), their style is one that is enchanting and unique.
The only disappointing aspect of this mix is that the main bassline does not differ very much from L&M’s remix of Tranquility Base’s Getting Away. However the utilisation of a flute-induced melody works perfectly with the vocal, and is an idea I’m surprised Tiësto decided not to use himself whilst constructing the original.
Final Thoughts:
It is pleasing that the efforts of both Junkie XL and Leama & Moor have turned both UR and A Tear in the Open from average tracks to ones that will do well on many dancefloors. If I had to choose one over the other, I would probably opt for Junkie XL’s remix of UR, possibly because of how much I admire the clever utilisation of live instruments alongside electronic productions.
One of the gripes I have about this release however is the unnecessary utilisation of picture discs. Yes, they are a bit of a novelty in someone’s vinyl collection, but I’m sure the majority of buyers would just prefer to have the tracks that are cut on the vinyl. Because the release is a picture disc, it practically doubles the retail price, which, had it not been for the strong effort of both tracks on the release, I would not have been buying.
So, the vinyl is recommended, but only if you’re really prepared to spend the money on it.
Useful Links:
www.tiesto.com
www.junkiexl.com
www.leamaandmoor.com
www.nebula.uk.com
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Reviewed By : ImpactPlayaz
