IN THE MIX
Kind of like how America sucks ass in technological fields as compared to Japan, we suck ass equally-- if not more-- in our domestic techno remixes as compared to England; or any European country. Sure, our acid jazz is untouchable, but that's not enough. I just don't understand it all. What I do understand is that the Virgin music In the Mix series is one of the strongest collections of remixes I've ever heard. Even at a hefty $36 dollars (plus tax) for a two disc set [totally crammed with music], it's still worth every cent; and makes our Party Mix discs look like the pathetic cheerleader-fodder crap that they are. If you keep up do date with the series, which is released three times a year, you can hear artists which will takes months if not years to hit the States domestically. Granted, you run the danger of finding an artist you really like and won't be able to find cheaply, but it's worth the risk. Get lost in the wicked bass booms, the techno pizzicatos, the swirling seductive synth... and pray that this stuff cathces on so we can quit paying $10 a pop for imported remix singles. [Only one of several discs has been linked above-- Try the search engine below, and remember to look for these discs in the import listings made by Virgin music.]
THE INK SPOTS
Proto-R&B, the Ink Spots are a vocal ensemble popular during the later 40's and early 50's. I became an instant fan when I heard "Java Jive," which is a song that would hook any coffee-addict/drinker. If smooth, soul vocals set to the sounds of the mid-century are anything that might interest you, these boys are definitely worth your while.
INXS
I wanted to like their last album, which indeed turned out to be their last album, but it just didn't strike me. After all, Kick is a classic of modern rock in its prime; it was one of the first albums I rebought when I made the CD switchover. Every time I pop it back into the CD player, I'm surprised at how good it is... and how old it's become. As a fan of INXS, it's a precarious time now-- While Michael Hutchence's death provided a brief resurgance of popularity, will the music of INXS now fade away? Will it remain a staple of modern day music as it should? Or will it, worst of all, live as an 80's retro novelty on K-Tel compilations? Since there have been 70's and 80's revivals, I only hope that modern rock will enjoy a second coming; and INXS along with it.
