The Dignity Of Labour - XRV MCD

XRV (Single Mix)
Vinyl Bliss (The Bachelor 7")
XRV (Nevarakka Mix)
XRV (Upstairs At Erics)
Vinyl Bliss (Color Theory Unmix)
XRV (Xtremix)
Oxygen (Single Mix)
XRV (Domination Mix)

This is the single preceding The Dignity Of Labour's self-titled debut album on the A Different Drum label, entitled "XRV". The single features several remixes of the title track, both by the band and other bands/projects, such as Neverakka and Razormaid, as well as a newly re-done version of "Vinyl Bliss", which is originally from the "Belief" album, a remix thereof, and a single mix of "Oxygen", a track slated to appear on the upcoming album. The single mix for the title track is an enhanced version, different from the version that appeared on the mini-cd promo "New Artists 2004" that A Different Drum distributed for free with orders. The new version of "Vinyl Bliss" was really, really impressive. Much more crisp and full-sounding, the bass now is awesome. Love it.

Nevarakka launch off the remixes, with a hard-hitting dancefloor mix that is sure to pack just about any dancefloor. The Upstairs At Eric's remix of the track harkens back to the analog days of Yazoo, with a heavy analog synth sound forming the backbone of this mix. Had I not know to the contrary, at first I would have had no idea that Color Theory's remix was by Color Theory. Until the piano part came in, I still wasn't sure. This is a hard-thumping, deeply bass-heavy remix of "Vinyl Bliss". Wow. This is nothing at all like what I expected after seeing the remix entitled "Color Theory Unmix". It'll take me a while to absorb this one. The Xtremix of XRV was the least impressive of the remixes here.. I don't know, but when compared to the others here it just seemed a little.. bland. The new version of "Oxygen" (I've heard the demo) is really neat.. but I miss the processed vocals. They are much more clean here, and to me the somewhat Kraftwerkian feel they lent to the track was really cool. Still a awesome song though...The really impressive mix closes out the single. The Domination mix is a 9 minute juggernaut. Just a classic, unforgettable extended mix.

This single is, in my book, an essential buy. If you haven't been introduced to TDOL's music yet.. do yourself a favor, buy this single and fall in love. If you have already heard TDOL.. You should already have pre-ordered this. :)

Added:  Monday, June 14, 2004
Reviewer:  Jason Baker
Score:
Related web link:  Official Website
hits: 3649
Language: eng