Lcd Soundsystem

Review: After the indie discoisms of "Drunk Girls", LCD Soundsystem have plucked the gorgeous "I Can Change" from their superlative third album for single duties. The gloriously 80s synth overtones of the original are left intact on the accompanying remix and dub version from Aussie duo Stereogamus.

Review: A year or so on from the release of American Dream, LCD Soundsystem's much-hyped comeback album, James Murphy has decided to commission a swathe of fresh remixes. The first mixes to land come from ESP Institute boss and former NYC dweller Lovefingers. He brilliantly plays around with "Oh Baby", first serving up a full vocal version drenched in dub delay and mind-altering effects that makes much of selected lyrical phrases, chugging drums, bubbly electronic motifs and the original's familiar piano refrain. Turn to the flip for a largely vocal-free dub that's even more trippy and far-out in tone, with the now familiar piano riff taking pride of place throughout.

Review: Six years ago, an iconic and emotional concert at Madison Square Gardens marked the end of LCD Soundsystem. The accompanying documentary 'Shut Up and Play The Hits' delved into frontman James Murphy's reasons for the decision, with self-examination, a need for change and a fear of old age playing a part. Fast forward to 2017, and the surprise release of three singles accompanying the announcement of a comeback album triggers anticipation and a sigh of relief from fans everywhere. 'American Dream' meets expectations and at times surpasses them, with the familiar driving disco rhythms, strutting funk basslines and heartfelt morning-after-the-night-before ballads feeling like a well-needed catch up with an old friend. The current musical, social and political climates provide Murphy with platforms for his self-effacing and acerbic witticisms. This strong return to form was needed now perhaps more than ever, but simultaneously feels like they never left in the first place.

Review: Innervisions co-founder and tech-house behemoth Dixon is the latest remixer to get his hands on a track from LCD Soundsystem's 2017 album, American Dream. His version of "I Used To" is closer in feel to James Murphy and company's original version than his own grandiose and melodious tech-house epics, though the Berlin producer's decision to include some seriously epic breakdowns and build-ups suggests that the mix could not only land with his audience, but become something of an anthem in clubs around the globe. Arguably even better is flipside bonus cut "Pulse (V1)", a wonderfully melodious and atmospheric instrumental that sounds like it was inspired by NYC minimalists such as Steve Reich and Philip Glass.