2 Different Weekends, 3 Different Remixes

Yes, I'm aware that it's one of those 4 days of the week that does not involve the fun activities that sprout from Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. However, these three tracks will definitely make you feel like it is indeed the weekend. (Also, I'm just trying to post all the songs I've been meaning to post before it becomes 2015 and they're all officially outdated). Anyways, Oliver Nelson brings his bubbly beats to a new level of outstanding in his remix of Priory's "Weekend." It's groovy, sensational, and one of those tracks that I've listening to over and over again.

Priory - Weekend (Oliver Nelson Remix)

If you haven't heard Vérité yet, you better check yourself and that's the truth. (Ha). This remix of their version of the "Weekend" by Penguin Prison is upbeat and bouncy but in an unexpected, darker way--I'm guessing due to the minor tones of the song's vocals. But it works and I've been obsessed with it for quite awhile.

Vérité - Weekend (Penguin Prison Remix)

Molina brings more of an electro house vibe to their "Weekend," which unearths an unknown energy from this track. The drops are pretty explosive and exemplary of an overall solid remix.

Vérité - Weekend (Molina Remix)

Golden

This track by Lincoln Jesser has stuck with me for awhile and, as per usual, I have waited a substantial amount of time to post it. Nonetheless, I adore the contagious optimistic vibes of "Golden," which still seems shiny and brand new to me. I love this strange and blended genre of electro/pop/alternative.

Lincoln Jesser - Golden

***Bonus: Another upbeat track, "Tops."


Lincoln Jesser - Tops

Shooting Stars (Cover)

Upon seeing "Shooting Stars" listed as a cover, I was immediately intrigued. For me, the original of this track by Bag Raiders became an instant classic and a staple in my musical repertoire. Honestly, it doesn't seem like Elephante changed the song this much, which is a good thing because it retains its fantastic aura with a little added electro house energy, making it all the more danceable. Thus, I can't complain.

Elephante - Shooting Stars (Bag Raiders Cover)

Way to be Loved

I haven't stopped listening to this track since I heard it a few weeks ago. The stellar lo-fi vibes emitted from the whispery vocals of Jane Penny speak volumes for this one and have a way of putting the listener at an unanticipated ease when combined with the light and airy instrumentals, particularly the guitar riffs. After hearing "Way to be Loved," I was of course compelled to explore previous releases by Tops, specifically from their latest album Picture You Staring. It's fascinating to me to see how musicians today pull inspiration from totally different decades to create something that we deem "modern." Check out the slow "Outside" below "Way to be Loved" to see what I mean (lots of 80s-like influences, but with modern-day indie stuff combined). I am a huge fan and would love to hear more from Tops in the future.

Tops - Way to be Loved

Tops - Outside

We Were Young (Sascha Kloeber Remix)

I wasn't able to find out much about SRTW because it seems like this is the only track that they've released. Nonetheless, I love this calming track that reiterates the plethora of mistakes I'm making right now. But "we were young.. we were having fun" so it's cool right? Pretty much, yeah. That's always a solid enough excuse for me at the moment to be honest...

SRTW - We Were Young (Sascha Kloeber Remix)

Your Love (Le P Remix)

I definitely don't keep up with Nicole Scherzinger (#tbt to the ridiculous Pussycat Dolls... loosen up my buttons anyone?) but this mix by Le P is cheerful and upbeat in all the right ways. Quite the groove this one is.

Nicole Scherzinger - Your Love (Le P Remix)

Paradise Awaits Part II Feat. Goldlink

Um, wow. Okay just when you think our fave DJ, monsieur ZHU, has fallen off the scene after the release of his album, think again. Paradise Awaits Part II was released totally unexpectedly, which is another reason to love how ZHU operates--without any expectations. This might be overreaching, but I think his anonymity and spontaneity in exploring a new style of 'dj' per say is pretty revolutionary. Who doesn't love a man of mystery (or is that just me)? Also he throws down a lil cover of Thong Song at the end of this track... my reaction was along the lines of: wait what... but yes please keep going. Can we just visualize Sisqo for a second? If you need help, see below. Good memories. My only problem is that the track is too short, but I mean maybe there will be a part III? After all, paradise still awaits...

ZHU - Paradise Awaits, Part II Feat. Goldlink

Firestone

... no not like the tire company, but more like Kygo has been on fucking fire... musically, and let's be honest, physically because he's smoking. Does it get any better than a gorgeous Norwegian DJ who posts Instagram videos of himself playing piano? Ugh, no, it does not. Looks aside, it is always interesting to hear a DJ's first original mix when they normally stick to remixing tracks. In some cases (ahem....The Chainsmokers, RE: Selfie, Kanye, and Polkadots), I have mixed feelings... but Kygo pretty much kills this first attempt at original material. I was unsure at first about the powerful voice of Conrad (don't know who that is) in this track but, the somberness of it balances well with Kygo's classic (or klassic, idk) upbeat rhythms and synth. Keep it up and stay beautiful, Kygo.

Kygo - Firestone (Ft. Conrad)

Tuesday (Remix)

This is so annoying of me, but I've been waiting like 4 Tuesdays to post this because I refuse to post it on any other day but a Tuesday. Hopefully you will benefit from that and turn up to this boss remix by Coucheron tonight, maybe not in an actual club, but like at least couch or bed club goin up (that's what I'm doing, evidently). The original is obviously a little old at this point but it's all so bizarre that I just can't deny loving it. Coucheron puts a fabulous electronic/disco touch on it and retracts some of the original's redundancy (b/c I'm choosy...bye).

ILoveMakonnen x Coucheron - Tuesday (Remix)

September (Cover)

If only it was September again so that this would be more relevant (I look forward to the night of the 21st every year) but this cover is short and sweet and perfect. It's brimming with soul and does not let down its predecessor. Solid production and sound from J Tropic, and I suggest that you check out his other tracks on his soundcloud. ("Solid Gold" is my favorite, I think, and seems to be inspired by Disclosure in every good way).

J Tropic X Alyss - September

Good Life (CD & Miskeyz Remix)

I've been listening to this remix for about a month now and keep finding my way back to it. Kanye clearly was welcoming himself to the good life with no intention of looking back... but like who doesn't miss the old Kanye. This mix of classic pre-Kim Kanye is spectacular and exudes all the perfect vibes. Also side note, who forgot about T-Pain like me? Remember that stupid app that came out to autotune your voice? Did anyone else catch his amazing Tiny Desk Concert at NPR??? Like ok T-Pain, it's pretty reassuring to know you're a real musician. Sorry for rambling, listen to this fuego remix right here.

Kanye West - Good Life (CS & Miskeyz Remix)

Fais Rien

Wow, okay. I never thought I would hear a song condoning one of my favorite activities, that is, to do nothing, which is the meaning of this track's title. (I guess my French proficiency helps sometimes...)  The majestical Moi je (= me I [?]) hails from Lyon, France, one of my favorite cities. But anyways this upbeat bippity boppity tune is perfect for my everyday lazy day lifestyle, which, yes, I know, won't last. But I'm certainly enjoying it while I can! Fais rien, all day, every day.

Moi je - Fais Rien

Insane (Sebastian Carter Remix)

Agh this is old but yet I am still obsessed with it months later. Obviously Flume is a mixing genius on his own, but Sebastian Carter switched up this track and ups the tempo without taking away from its downbeat vibes. Take away message from this track: live in your own little bubble but don't let it make you go crazy yo.

Flume - Insane ft. Moon Holiday (Sebastian Carter Edition)

Colour (Lost Kings Remix)

A quick little post as a hump day treat. Here's an amazing remix of "Colour" by Lost Kings, who have a pretty impressive repertoire of upbeat progressive house mixes, like their one of "Overdrive." I love a good use of keyboard/piano, which they seem to have mastered. Hope this song can get you through the rest of the week (note the repetitive chorus of "don't stop"...). Enjoy!

Wild Cub - Colour (Lost Kings Remix)

Cover Up

Maybe I'm strange, but I love the cold because you're always able to bundle up a little more and staying in bed for the majority of the day is twice as likely/acceptable. Also boots are my favorite kind of shoes to wear. Whereas when it's scorching hot outside, you can't just walk around naked because you're hot and sweating is inevitable, meh. All ice queen vibes aside, here are some dope covers (and remixes of covers.. like whoa) that I've found to be quite enjoyable recently. If you're looking for some warm tracks to get cozy with I've got you covered:


Ellie (Loyal x Don't) [Coucheron Remix] - Eastside

Paris Carney - Your Woman (White Town Cover)

Wafia - Let Me Love You (Le P Remix) 

Young & Sick - Breath (Télépopmusik Cover)

Mating Ritual

I'm catching up on posting, as per usual, and I know that these songs are like a month or more old so forgive meh. These tracks by Mating Ritual (aka Ryan Marshall Lawhon) simply cannot be overlooked. Both songs have lovely and brutally honest lyrics produced with enough electronic beats full of energy so that they don't get swept under the rug as a typical indie-ish sound. The best line of "Game" in my opinion is: "I'll tell you whatever I want and let you think it's the truth" because, I mean, that's just true for everything. But think what you want! Life's a game, ya know?

Mating Ritual - Game

Mating Ritual - Toxins

Vanic Remixes : Hypnotic / Can't Sleep

I first heard of Vanic this summer when I heard his take on machineheart's "Circles," but the remix has since been removed (sad). However, his latest mixes do not disappoint and give songs that were already rad to begin with an added boost of awesome. He combines bass and really synth-y sounds to create his masterpieces. I particularly can't stop listening to his mix of Zella Day's "Hypnotic"-- a title indicative of the sentiments evoked from the track itself. Also, I've loved K.Flay since I I heard her track "2 Weak" (which cleverly samples "Two Weeks" by Grizzly Bear) the summer after finishing high school. Vanic's mix of her "Can't Sleep" is amazing. Get your fix below.

Vanic x Zella Day - Hypnotic

Vanic x K.Flay - Can't Sleep

Heavy Crown (The 1975 Remix)

I was pretty sure nothing could trump one of my favorite tracks from this past spring, "Heavy Crown" by Y.O.U. and I think I was right, because it definitely stuck with me. This remix by The 1975 (I honestly had no idea that they did remixes) is pretty awesome though. They slow it down magnificently and add just the right amount of bass. Check it out:

Y.O.U. - Heavy Crown (The 1975 Remixes)

Colors

Mexico City Blondes is pretty kickass. Although the duo of Allie Thompson and Greg Doscher do not hail from Mexico City but actually Santa Barabara, they are both indeed blonde. I am a huge fan of Allie's smoky and retro sounding voice, which stands out beautifully amongst tons of people who can't actually sing today. My favorite part of the song is when it breaks down around 1:40 as Allie sings "We found a new room with a view..." and then it picks back up again with a newfound energy. I love this track in addition to their debut single, "Fade." I hope to hear more from these golden haired beauties soon.

Mexico City Blondes - Colors

Bones

I absolutely adore this latest track released from Cash + David, the duo of Tim Ross and Liz Lawrence. Before "Bones," I had heard "Pulse" (posted below) and their variability in styles is impressively striking. The smoky voice of Liz Lawrence dominates both tracks, spreading the smoothest butter atop the toast of production. Something about "Bones" reminds me a little bit of the group Electric Youth, but more subdued. I love it and can't wait to hear more from Cash + David.

Cash + David - Bones

Cash + David - Pulse

10,000 Emerald Pools

This song is dope, but I definitely thought it was a girl singing. Upon finding Børns' Instagram, I stand corrected. Still confused, but it won't stop me from liking this happy little track.

Børns - 10,000 Emerald Pools

Outside

I would be a fool to not post this track, which is the latest single from Calvin Harris' upcoming album Motion due out November 4. It was Grimes who once said something like, "If I hate a song the first time I listen to it, I know I'm going to go back to it and love it" (or something along those lines in less than 140 characters)... but that is how I felt about this one. At first I was like, meh, this is repetitive and whatever like it's fine. And then it just kind of hits you like a crazy obsession, and that's putting it lightly since this song has been on repeat for the past two days. Upon peeping at the track list of Motion I see collaborations with the likes of HAIM, Big Sean, Gwen Stefani, and Tinashe. Wtf Calvin this sounds too good to be true. Let's hope it delivers as much as his previous and too-catchy-to-even-vocalize work.

Calvin Harris - Outside (feat. Ellie Goulding) 

Beggin For Thread Remixes

BANKS is pretty much golden these days. Her complete album Goddess, released earlier in September proffers a solidified sense of soul, in a less complain-y way than Lana Del Rey with a more concrete sensuality, but still keeps up the mystique. Of all the tracks, though, "Beggin For Thread" remains my absolute favorite (see original below). It's now one of those tracks that catches several DJs' attentions, for good reason.

Hotel Garuda clearly feels comfortable mixing this genre of music, but among their many Lana remixes, this one stands out as one of their best. Gryffin teams up with them to transform this track into something more upbeat than I could have imagined, but they seem to balance out the minor tones pretty well. See what you think:

BANKS - Beggin For Thread (Gryffin & Hotel Garuda Remix)

This remix by Bag Raiders actually caught me completely off guard in the best way possible. This duo hasn't been releasing much lately and I feel like for them to remix a song as popular as this is kind of a big deal, but whatever. (Side note: I will never be over their out of this world track "Shooting Stars"... I always find myself going back to it.) This remix is an example of their amazing exploration in all things electronic and I hope to hear more remixes from them soon.

BANKS - Beggin For Thread (Bag Raiders Remix)

BANKS - Beggin For Thread

On Trees and Birds and Fire (Sam Feldt & Bloombox Remix)

This song pretty much incorporates every musical element I love into one track. Glockenspiel? Check. Banjo? Got it. Sassy brass? Affirmative. Solid vocals? Yup. And most important, a good beat? Absolutely. Also, I just checked-- I most definitely have had the original of this track for a few years in my library, probably acquired during my most indie of times. Anyways, Sam Feldt and Bloombox bring it back to life, elevating it into that tropical house genre I enjoy so much in an awesome approach to create a well done remix. P.S. How perfect is the autumn inspired album artwork? You know you love it when trees' leaves ditch their chlorophyll..

I Am Oak - On Trees and Birds and Fire (Sam Feldt & Bloombox Remix)

Angry Hill (D.O.C.S. Remix)

Okay so both of these are two artists whom I don't know. George Ezra is an English dude who is apparently pretty big (not sure why I've never heard of him, but whatever) and his deep voice sure is surprising, nonetheless, seriously impressive considering his skinny white boy physique. Here is the original of "Angry Hill" if you want to compare. D.O.C.S. (an acronym of both of their initials) is a pair of German dudes who just seem like they love music and want to have fun with it. I dig that. They bring some nice simple, understated beats to this track and give it a more upbeat feel. Check it out:

George Ezra - Angry Hill (D.O.C.S. Remix)

Diamonds

This is a perfect let you down gently track as you slowly shake out of your weekend trance to realize that tomorrow is Monday. It sucks, right? But whatever don't let it get you down, just keep dancing throughout the week the most that you can! Lane 8 is keeps killing it and I can't wait to hear more tracks from them. Happy but sad, this song should do your Sunday some justice.

Lane 8 - Diamonds ft. Solomon Grey

Some Chords (Dillon Francis Remix)

We haven't heard much from deadmau5 these days, other than his trademark disputes with Disney (these are clearly different species of mice, people) and his stint as an Uber X driver in Toronto in his bomb ass McLaren. I'm a fan of theatrics, and he most certainly has an edge for them. Speaking frankly though, I haven't like much of what he has released since 4 x 4=12 and Random Album Title ("Strobe" is my shit). So I guess his label mau5trap has taken to releasing baller remixes of these tracks from his prime. I'm okay with that. Kudos to you Dillon Francis to making this one dirty and to the designer of this album artwork who must have had some kind of Animorphs inspiration... good stuff.

deadmau5 - Some Chords (Dillon Francis Remix)

Calling Out

Good 80's vibes for life. After recently seeing St. Lucia in concert, this song strikes some similarities between the two groups for me. A bit retro in sound, but both bring in a good funk with an undeniably happy mood, even though most of their tracks are full of despair/angst. I dig that kind of self-antithesis. It's kind of like, yeah, we'll point out all the shit that's going wrong right now, but we've accepted it in a self-defiant way that we can still be happy about the rest of everything in our lives and make good out of the bad. Maybe I'm looking to far into it, but few people like a whiny song full of desperation.. this is the perfect alternative. I've been all over Penguin Prison's shit since I heard "The Worse It Gets" like 4 years ago (obviously the RAC remix of it too) which epitomizes the aforementioned happy/sad self-contradictions.


Penguin Prison - Calling Out

Liquid Spirit (20syl Remix)

If this doesn't compel you to grab a drink tonight and celebrate nothing, I'm not sure what will. As per usual, 20syl works his funky upbeat magic in this latest mix. I wasn't sure what to expect after the release of his amazing EP, Motifs, but this definitely doesn't disappoint. As you know, I've been a fan of 20syl since his first release of his remix of Rihanna's "Stay" and he continues to wow me with his combination of natural good ol' fashioned funk and electronic genius. I also love his use of just the original artists' heads as the album artwork for his remixes. Like, yeah, this is weird, but it's also pretty funny and gives a nod (ha) to the artist as he remixes them. Enjoy your thirsty Thursday peeps.

Gregory Porter - Liquid Spirit (20syl Remix)

Team (Autograf Remix)

Disclaimer/defense of my lack of posts: Honestly, not many songs have been coming out that wield much influence in my day-to-day. So, I'll be posting the few songs from the past month or so that have caught my ear and attention.

At first upon seeing this I was like hmm another Lorde remix? But then asked myself when have I not really like a Lorde remix? Pretty rare, so I gave it a try. This track was love at first listen, as it evokes amazingly upbeat ~tropical~ vibes. Phenomenal job by Autograf, who I hope to hear more of soon!

Lorde - Team (Autograf Remix)

Let's Get It On (Lovra Remix)

Lovra, or self-described model from Berlin (idk I mean her Facebook page only was set up 8 days ago), has put a funky electronic spin on Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get It On." Not that the song needed anything else in its already obvious perfection, but this mix makes for a pleasant listen. Check it:

Marvin Gaye - Let's Get It On (Lovra Remix)

Silverlined

Well, it's been a hell of a month. I don't really know why it's been going so quickly (maybe because I've had so much shit going on...) but here we are with a little less than a week left. À la Green Day if "Wake Me Up When September Ends" was for real this was hardly me closing my eyes. BUT WAIT there's a silver lining. Duh. That's where this song comes in. It's so catchy and upbeat you can't help but let it make you crack a smile. So when things get heavy remember that most of the time it's silverlined... hehe listen below and you'll get it!

XYConstant - Silverlines

Glamorous (Matt DiMona Remix)

As I stuff my face with a Starbucks breakfast sandwich, glamorous is exactly how I'm feeling this bright morning. Regardless, this song definitely does help add somewhat to that aesthetic. Matt DiMona does a glorious job giving this classic sassy Fergie track a tropical and chill facelift. Now, you're probably not the biggest Fergie fanatic, but I ask you: who else can wear an all leopard print outfit and get away with it? I  am a bit bummed that the Ludacris verse is omitted because I definitely spent a good amount of time learning those lyrics via youtube in my early high school years (Plus I gotta keep enough lettuce to support your shoe fetish...). Lovely remix, and I hope to hear more stuff like this soon from Matt.

Fergie - Glamorous (Matt DiMona Remix)

Goodbye Summer

For obvious reasons, this song is depressing AF. Welcome to September. Unfortunately, Misun did not release this in time to make the well-known 500 Days of Summer soundtrack... yes, I do own it. After a little more research on the DC-based group, even though I've already posted a few of their amazing tracks, I found that the group is named for their wonderful whispery vocalist, Misun Wojcik. Also their producer and guitarist is none other than Nacey.. wut. This track is a beautiful type of sad and only makes me look forward to next summer even more. Goodbye sweet summer, we'll miss you dearly.

Misun - Goodbye Summer

Petal

You should already know how much I absolutely adore Broke For Free (aka Tom Cascino). He released the entire Petal album earlier this summer, and it is absolutely pristine, especially for a mellow Monday like today. It's definitely an album I can listen to in its entirety and is available for free to download on Bandcamp (see embed link below). I already posted some of my favorites that were released earlier this year, but of the new releases on this album, I highly suggest "Summer Spliffs," "Add And," & "Melt." Check them out here: 

Go

For those of you who didn't know, Grimes (aka Claire Boucher) is actually my spirit animal to the core. I first fell in love with her music when I heard "Oblivion" because at the time when it came out it felt (and still does feel) like it applies directly to me. Not only is she super cool and relatable, not to mention hilarious (check out her twitter feed & tumblr), it's clear that she is an extremely hardworking individual who does her best to convey her message as an artist. Grimes is a punk-ish "urban faery" according to her tumblr, with a flavor that can't be confused with anyone else, and for that I have mad respect. About being an artist in such a competitive industry, she says:

never thought of myself as a 'female' artist until writers, agents, labels etc. started referring to me as such

She has an amazing track record when it comes to music videos. The one for "Genesis" is bizarrely brilliant, but you just can't help but love it, as Grimes comes off as an obvious badass while playing with a boa constrictor, but definitely not à la Britney Spears. I already loved "Oblivion" as a song, but when the video came out, I felt like I truly understood where Grimes was coming from as an artist who often can go under the radar. It's just like the idea of feeling completely isolated even when you're around a ton of people, but she likes it because she's still jammin' in her own world with her headphones on.. SPEAK TO ME GRIMES. So perfect.

The song "Go" was originally written by Grimes and Blood Diamonds for Rihanna, but it was apparently turned down (... for what). Even though the song is a bit different than her airy style, it works magnificently. The video for the awesome summer track was released last week and it was co-directed by Grimes and her brother. About the video, she says:

It’s supposed to be dante’s inferno (abstractly), different layers of hell etc. super visually inspired by like x men, metal gear, dune. haha, maybe thats too all over the place and doesn’t make sense, but yea, enjoy! 

It's our take on Dante's inferno. The circles of hell reflect more contemporary issues though. We shot a bunch at the Salton Sea which is basically an apocalyptic wasteland filled with dead fish because of human carelessness, the bullet hole hallway a la Korn's 'Freak on a Leash' etc etc.

I've literally got a callous on my butt from sitting down editing 20 hrs a day for a week strait haha, i hope its not permanent
— grimes 0_0 (@Grimezsz) August 10, 2014

She clearly worked very hard on the video, and I think it turned out fantastically. Mad love for her and can't wait until she comes out with more awesome jams. Check it out here:

Grimes - Go ft. Blood Diamonds

Can't Stop Playing (Oliver Heldens & Gregor Salto Remix)

Amazing new release of the full track of the remix of "Can't Stop Playing." I just can't stop playing it!!!! Hehehe. Ignore me, I'm just delirious happy that it's the weekend. Amazing bass. Check it.

Dr. Kucho! & Gregor Salto - Can't Stop Playing (Oliver Heldens & Gregor Salto Remix)

P.S. If you want more of Netherlands based Oliver Heldens to get your freaky Friday on, check out his track "Koala" that was released earlier this summer... when I wasn't posting anything.

Oliver Heldens - Koala

Home (Kat Krazy Remix)

Oh boy, do I love a good Kat Krazy remix. Girlfriend just knows what she's doing with her high energy tracks. Here, she plays up Sam Roman's swarthy voice absolutely perfectly. Enjoy!

Naughty Boy - Home ft. Sam Romans (Kat Krazy Remix)

Pushing On (Tchami Remix)

Oh shit, what can I say other than love at first listen. I do have a weakness for French DJs, especially those based in Paris, but Tchami absolutely kills it in this remix (not sure if the ~'s are obligatory). This edit totally electrifies the original, bringing dance-level energy in to knock your socks off. Groove to this. Happy Friday!

Oliver $ & Jimi Jules - Pushing On (Tchami Remix)

Catching Up: The White Panda

The White Panda was one of my first mashup DJ obsessions in high school, so it's awesome to me to see how their work evolves and progresses, especially as they have been releasing more and more original remixes. (Side note: sophomore year of college I said hey to them after their show and then later hung out with them at a bar, nbd). So yeah, I love them.

I don't know if any of you were as obsessed as I was with Imogen Heap's "Hide and Seek" in late middle school. The real mystery is actually what did she say?! I've been dying to know for like ten years now. I never did watch the OC, but I did catch that season 2 finale where Marissa shoots a firearm to this dramatic tune. More important, I mostly watched the SNL parody of that scene... many a time. Anyways, awesome remix of really just that classic line of the song here.

Hide & Seek ft. Audien (White Panda Edit)

Although there have been a shit ton of Disclosure remixes, I don't think I've heard a mashup of one of their tracks. As per usual, The White Panda brings some serious originality here in pairing "Latch" with "Cooler than Me" by Mike Posner. (Like, wut? Who thinks of that?) This is a fun track and I know you know all the words.

Cooler Than Latch (Disclosure ft. Sam Smith// Mike Posner)

Long live The White Stripes. I mean, even my dad loved them. And Meg White is a badass drummer. Pretty unexpected remix but nonetheless dope.

The White Stripes - Seven Nation Army (White Panda Reboot)

I love a good Flume track, and even more I think I love it with Kanye West even better. You may think that this song might have been forever marked as one of The Hangover themes, but no, this is awesome. P.S. I'm not getting a sig on my beeper.

Insane (White Panda Vocal Edit)

Always Somethin

You might remember Kill Them With Colour from their awesome mashup/remix of A$AP Rocky that they released last year. This track is magical perfection and shows us that they not only kill with color, but also with floral guns (that maybe shoots really thorny roses, I don't know, but either way it's badass). Although I was surprised by the bass during the first listen, it is actually well executed. If you ever need to straight up call someone out on their shitty behavior, just play this song. Don't be that person that keeps coming up with "another lame excuse" or you could end up having a song like this written about you, which might not be that bad considering I can't stop listening to it...

P.S. If you're as curious as I was, the original of this track is called "Heard It All Before" by Sunshine Anderson, a North Carolinian R&B singer/resident sass. I did indeed watch the entire video, during which Sunshine eats ice cream (?) out of a container that has the label "Single" printed on it... soml.

Kill Them With Colour - Always Somethin

Heroes

The self-contradictory Tove Lo (not on drugs? or really does have bad habits and has to stay high all the time? I'm not sure I get which kind of girl she wants to be...) makes her second cameo in a house song, and pretty much kills it with the help of some DJ (idk if you've heard of him), Alesso, who made me not want to raise the roof, but rather tear it up, earlier this summer. Either way, Tove Lo, I'm not sure I think you could be my hero (heroine, I guess) due to your obvious mental instability related to your boy craziness. Side note: is her name an anagram for "to love"??? Momentary mind blow. BUT, don't get me wrong, she rocks the vocals in this song as Alesso persists as one of the kings of house and continuously makes me want to dance.

Alesso - Heroes (feat. Tove Lo)

Oliver Nelson

Warning: bulk post ahead.

What is there to say about this electro mastermind? Self-tagged as "future disco," the suave Swede Oliver Nelson has created a pretty unique category for his addictive remixes. With the perfect balance of funk and electronic input, these phenomenal tracks just make sense. It's interesting to me to see how he puts the same disco/light electro vibes in so many different songs from a myriad of genres.

As, I've already mentioned, there's no better way to bring some funk than by means of terrific talk box vocals in a track. Tobtok (tok box?) and Emil Heró do exactly that in this brilliantly executed remix by Oliver Nelson. Showin' and tellin' me we're magical is exactly what this song does (in addition to taking me higher, ugh fine). Groovy, funky, exactly what you need.

Tobtok ft. Emil Heró - Higher (Oliver Nelson & Skogsrå Remix)

This track is a bit more upbeat, but it is contagious and catchy and every way possible thanks to Oliver Nelson's refined electronic touches. I caught myself singing it in the shower the other day for absolutely no reason (not à la Becky G). Also Ella Henderson's voice is pretty dope... mine, on the other hand, is not. So funky in all the right ways and not having anything to do with paranormal activity.

Ella Henderson - Ghost (Oliver Nelson Remix)



After hearing the original of this song, listening to this remix is pretty impressive when you think how did you get this from that? Awesome funky guitar touches are sprinkled throughout this one and the upbeat synth is the perfect way to mellow it out.

The Kooks - Forgive & Forget (Oliver Nelson Remix)

Same kind of style, equally as amazing.

Tomas Barfod - Busy Baby Feat. Nina K (Oliver Nelson Remix)

An interesting take on the original, once again mellowing it out and giving it slower, even MORE feel-good vibes.

Route 94 - My Love Feat. Jess Glynne (Oliver Nelson Remix)

Funk + Funk = ultimate funkmasters flexed.

Chromeo - Night By Night (Oliver Nelson Remix)

Bad (The Rooftop Boys Remix)

I'm not sure of who The Rooftop Boys are exactly, but I'd love to meet them somewhere atop a building. This is only their second track that they've released (the first was an interesting, almost-there remix of Bound 2, with no rap included). I think they hit the nail on the head here with the sound that they're aiming for: Hawaiian shirt vibes. And there's nothing "bad" about that... Well done and hopefully the next track will be just as good!

David Guetta & Showtek - Bad (The Rooftop Boys Remix)

Break The Rules

Happy Friday, you hooligans. Take this track and run with it. Enjoy these pretty clichéd teenage girl lyrics in Charli XCX's awesome almost shouting vocals.

Charli XCX - Break The Rules

The Latest: Hotel Garuda

I love the upbeat vibes Hotel Garuda continuously delivers to their remixes. They are clearly well versed in handling Lana Del Rey's vocals quite excellently. Their latest take on Lana's brilliant/dark/whispery "Ultraviolence" is amazing and flows perfectly.

Lana Del Rey - Ultraviolence (Hotel Garuda Remix)



Hotel Garuda released this remix just yesterday, and it plays well in their signature style of upbeat funk. Also, I'm not sure who this Anna Lunoe character is, but she has a pretty rockin' voice.

Anna Lunoe - All Out (Hotel Garuda Remix)

This remix of theirs is a bit older, and I know you're asking why I'm even posting another remix of Chromeo's fantastic track, "Jealous," but I think it's worth a mention if you have yet to hear it!

Chromeo Jealous (Hotel Garuda x Sweekuh Remix)

Alison Wonderland

Sorry for all of these bulk posts but ok, so I first heard Alison Wonderland (props for the very clever name/mad hats off to Lewis Carroll) back in May with "I Want U" but didn't post anything for 3 months so yeah. But she just released "Cold" actual minutes ago. It starts off as pretty #dark with some Lido-esque sound effects but then evolves and goes down the rabbit hole into a deep electronic track. I really enjoy her open confessional in this track of the chorus that just repeats "I'm too cool for this." Maybe a little stuck up, but I kind of feel that too way in some situations so thanks for Alison Wonderland for getting that.

Alison Wonderland - Cool



If you haven't heard this song I don't really know where you've been. Kind of like teenage girl fantasy-esque who can't control her hormones in the lyrics but dope drops that are surprisingly fantastic.

Alison Wonderland - I Want U

Alison might be confusing herself with the Queen of Hearts in this track, which offers a repetitive yet oddly soothing chorus of "never tell me lies." I love the electronics of this track; they seem to come and go at the perfect times.

Alison Wonderland - Lies

Hoodboi calms down "I Want U" in this sick remix that gives the track a whole new feel.

Alison Wonderland - I Want U (Hoodboi remix)

On the other hand, GANZ freaks out with this remix, making it even bigger than it was and the drops even deeper. Who knew it was possible? Go GANZ.

Alison Wonderland - I Want U (GANZ Flip)

P.S. I'm quite unsure about the meaning behind the repeating "AA" on all of the album artwork... let me know if you have any ideas...

Throwback Thursday... Remixed

Some of your favorite older tracks have been given an awesome spin. In case you haven't heard ANY of these (slim chance) they're an accumulation of my favorite remixes from this summer.

I absolutely love all of C2C's work (not even just because they're amazingly French), and this is no exception. They bring a newfound electronic form of funk, including a plethora of their signature record backspins that only they can pull off in a song. The beat is contagious with an elevated energy level and building anticipation. To say the least, this mix does Mr. Stevie Wonder some serious justice. If you don't know C2C, or their amazing remix of "When A Fire Starts To Burn," I highly recommend you check out their other work on their soundcloud.

Stevie Wonder - Superstition (C2C Remix)

The only real downside to this remix is that it's the edited version of this song, which I really don't understand, because there's few an intro like Ja Rule's "WHAT'S MY MOTHERFUCKIN' NAME" bark. Anyways, the two Parisian producers of Basic Tape bring some new fire to this staple track of 2001. After investigating their Soundcloud, I also discovered their dope remix of Nelly Furtado's "Promiscuous," which is also posted below. They include a decent amount of piano that works surprisingly well in both tracks. Excited for this new discovery and can't wait to hear more from them!

Jennifer Lopez ft. Ja Rule - I'm Real (Basic Tape Remix)

Nelly Furtado ft. Timbaland - Promiscuous (Basic Tape Remix)

I haven't heard from Tim Gunter in awhile, but you can never go wrong with a Snoop Dogg remix. The idea of Snoop's drops into the modern day sense of drops is absolutely brilliant and the drops themselves are pretty dope. The heavy synth brass can come off a bit strong at first, but you'll warm up to it.

Snoop Dogg - Drop It Like It's Hot (Tim Gunter Remix)

There is really nothing better than hearing the first few seconds of a song and knowing you'll love the rest of it, and then kind of losing your shit when you listen to it all the way through for the first time because fuck yeah good music. I didn't think Ludacris' deep voice could get any lower (how low can YOU go, Luda?) but Action 52 proves me wrong. It might even sound better deeper, but either way it just works in this remix. Pretty damn solid.

Ludacris - How Low (Action 52 Remix)

This is probably the last song I ever thought would get an excellent electro house makeover, but whoa, what, this is Sum 41? I thought I swore I was done with them after 2006. Disorienting, but it works. Awesome build and the drop isn't too shabby either.

Sum 41 - In Too Deep (Kasum Remix)

Catching Up: Coldplay Remixes

I hate to be one of those cliche girls, but Coldplay honestly is one of my favorite groups of all time. They cut me deep. So naturally, since I dig the originals of their songs, I will probably like most of the remixes of them.

There were a lot of remixes of the already phenomenal "A Sky Full Of Stars," but I think something that was already so electronically based might be more difficult to play up and a lot of them I didn't really enjoy. Sultan + Ned Shepard's attempt transformed the song into a bit of a cheesy house jam that I felt didn't really work. It's hard to spin off from Avicii, I guess. On the other hand, I really must applaud Instant Party! for his baller remix of this track. For a song that I was convinced couldn't get any better, he really does give it that extra kick that it could use (ahem, BASS). I absolutely love when something good graduates to something even better and he does that in perfecting this track.

Coldplay - A Sky Full Of Stars (Instant Party! Remix)

Continuing with their latest album, Ghost Stories, comes the mystical remix of "Magic" by AlunaGeorge to which I am strangely drawn. It's kind of funky because it does feel like there are a lot of random things going on in this remix. However, I think it does work considering that she pretty much stripped Chris Martin's vocals from the original and did whatever she wanted with them. This remix evolves as it progresses and I really enjoy that aspect of it.

Coldplay - Magic (AlunaGeorge Remix)

Here we might find ourselves in "Trouble" (hehe) in going back to Coldplay's debut album, Parachutes. I love a good Royal Refix, and this one does not disappoint in the slightest.

Coldplay - Trouble (Royal Refix)

Touched

This song is pretty old, but again, it's one that I keep coming back to without getting sick of it. If you haven't heard of What So Not yet, I'm not sure what you've been doing... you should just tell me. But anyways, this was one of the first tracks the Australian duo came up with in the studio and I think it's pretty awesome. I don't think I've really encountered such a compilation of sounds together at once that actually work so well in their dissonance. Give it a listen:

What So Not - Touched

Till Sunrise

First came their fabulous track, "Fifteen," already two years ago now. Since then, Goldroom has mostly been releasing various heavenly remixes, like this one. Their latest, "Till Sunrise" is an amazingly dreamy song with whispery and misty vocals that could lull me into a wonderful afternoon nap. Enjoy the fantastic relaxing vibes that come with this track!

Goldroom - Till Sunrise

Make Me Feel Better

Just to give you an idea, here is the original of this song, because there actually "Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing."  Long live Marvin Gaye and Tami Terrell. It just doesn't get any better than Marvin's sweet voice. But it's pretty cool that Alex Adair was able to make an entire song out of one line from this amazing classic: "You make me feel better, so let's stay together," at around 1:25. And yeah, this song does make me feel better, how could it not with the amazing vibes it exudes?

Alex Adair - Make Me Feel Better

Wasting My Young Years (The Aston Shuffle Remix)

Not only does the original of the song make me want to cry because of how good Hannah Reid's vocals are but also because the title might be true/makes me question even more what the hell I'm doing with my life. So thank goodness The Aston Shuffle came along to give this song a little more life and vivaciousness with their amazing remix that makes me smile instead. Perfect amount of energy here.

London Grammar - Wasting My Young Years (The Aston Shuffle Remix)

Le P Remixes

Cool things I did not know: The soulful swede Seinabo Sey is only 23 and based out of Stockholm. She became popular after Kygo's remix of her song "Younger," and Le P brings a similar tropical vibe to her latest single, "Hard Time." I love the contrast in this remix; Le P just somehow finds a way to make it work. He works his idle synth beats again over "Giants" by Bear Hands as well, though it's not as relaxing because the lyrics are kind of shouted, but maybe that's just how I feel... it still works doe.

Seinabo Sey - Hard Time (Le P remix)

Bear Hands - Giants (Le P Remix)

I Own It

This is definitely one of the songs that was love at first listen. Female rapper? (Angel Haze kills it)... A little aggressive with the lyrics? Check and check- that's all I need. Tbh, there's no denying the catchy chorus and beat. I especially love the line "content with my wrongness" because I feel the exact same way. See what you think:

 Nacey - I Own It ft. Angel Haze

Say My Name // Memories That You Call

Hooray for hearing from Odesza again! As I have already professed my obsession for their awesome feel good electronic tunes, expect nothing but the best. "Sun Models" was their first single that they released awhile ago from their upcoming album In Return, which is due out September 9 (can't wait). Also, wonderful call with the double exposure album artwork. Since then, they have released "Memories That You Call" in July and "Say My Name" yesterday. Both are fabulous, but I will say I love that "Say My Name" contains actual lyrics that I can clearly decipher by Zyra in a sweet honey voice. Enjoy the upbeat amazingness of "Say My Name" and the slowed down excellence of "Memories That You Call" below:

Odesza - Say My Name (Feat. Zyra)

Odesza - Memories That You Call (feat. Monsoonsiren)

Catching Up: The Chainsmokers

Honestly, I was not overwhelmingly impressed with The Chainsmokers' second release of original material, "Kanye." (I'm willing to overlook #Selfie, because it was a love/hate relationship... mostly only love because it was so bad yet so good... you know exactly what I mean.) Anyways, I don't really understand the basis of this song. The beats are good but the lyrics are pretty stupid. I respect the novel of a description that Drew and Alex of The Chainsmokers presumably wrote about the song, but if they wanted to have a song about "being yourself" and "doing you" then they could have just included lyrics more like that because I don't think that Kanye is the ultimate artist that represents doing whatever the fuck he wants and always getting away with it. He has plenty of "haters" but it's kind of for legitimate reasons, but whatever. It's not that I don't like him, it's just kind of a weird concept to me (weird celebrity worship kind of shit), but again, that's just me. They trimmed the track on soundcloud to a minute and a half (so you would be more tempted to buy it, I suppose) but this sample suffices for me, I think. See what you think:

The Chainsmokers - KANYE ft. Siren

I think I might forever prefer that The Chainsmokers just stick to their baller remixes. If you haven't heard the ridiculous original of "Drinking About You" then I don't know where you've been. Obviously, the subject is a bit depressing but you can't deny this remix is catchy af. The Jump Smokers' remix of this track was pretty dope too.

Bebe Rexha - Drinking About You (The Chainsmokers Remix)

Love Jose Gonzalez, and love that they decided to remix this track. The outcome is absolutely phenomenal! Need more remixes.

Jose Gonzalez - Step Out (The Chainsmokers Remix)

Curtains (Dinnerdate Remix)

To answer your question, yes, I am most definitely still playing catch up on posting my favorite tracks from this entire summer. This has not been an easy task considering the fact that I have so many. Anyways, here is a spectacular remix of Swedish band Last Lynx's "Curtains" that transforms it into an even dreamier track, while still giving it a little bit of upbeat funk. I've also posted the original because I thought it deserved some attention as well!

Last Lynx - Curtains (Dinnerdate Remix)

Last Lynx - Curtains

Superstar (Cosmo's Midnight x Lido Remix)

This quick little remix by one of my favorite's right now, Lido, does some serious justice to AlunaGeorge's ridiculously unique voice. Great drops and upbeat feel, ya heard?

AlunaGeorge - Superstar (Cosmo's Midnight x Lido Remix)

Girl vs. Work It

This mashup is pretty old but so bizarrely brilliant that I just had to share it with you. As always, I stand by anything related to Missy Elliott, and mixing "Work It" with "Girl" (work it, girl) by Jamie xx only seems wildly appropriate. Enjoy.

Jamie xx & Nicolas Jaar - Girl vs Work It (Nico's Bluewave Edit)

Now You Know (Bobby Green Remix)

I had never heard of Tiger La before this remix, but the original of this track is pretty good, with an unexpected amount of edginess. However, Bobby Green elevates it to a completely new level of jam. Even though it feels like the chorus is being shouted at us, it just makes it that much better and feels oh so right as it is surrounded by a fabulous build and release. This one cuts me deep.

Tiger La - Now You Know (Bobby Green Remix)

Stay With Me Remixed

If you say you don't like Sam Smith or at the very least his hit song "Stay With Me," you are straight up LYING. And everyone around you will know. So don't even try to take that route. When I first discovered the Prince Fox remix of this already amazing and heart-wrenching tune, I found myself trying to turn the volume up louder when it was already maxed out. Need to surround myself in this song for awhile/keep it on repeat. Prince Fox just completely cuts open this track and makes it ooze drippy drops in which I get lost. Ugh it just makes too much sense. So many feels. The Soul Clap remix, as their name might give away, is a bit more upbeat but equally as wonderful. I really can't stop listening to either one.

Sam Smith - Stay With Me (Prince Fox Remix)

Sam Smith - Stay With Me (Soul Clap Remix)

SNBRN

I love hearing more from LA-based tropical house DJ, SNBRN. (That was a lot of all caps in one sentence for me..) Anyways, his latest remixes continue to deliver his signature upbeat vibes and anyone who returns the mack can go far in my book. Also, who couldn't love 50 cent and Nate Dogg's voice an octave lower in his "21 Questions" remix? That question was rhetorical, so it doesn't count.

Mark Morrison - Return Of The Mack (SNBRN Remix)

50 Cent - 21 Questions (SNBRN Remix)

I Am

This is one of those instrumental tracks that I really enjoy but I can't exactly tell you why. In "I Am," Nicholas Cheung brings us a soothing blend of hushed whispers, more or less, with a nice slow beat that just lulls me to sleep. On that note..........

Nicholas Cheung - I Am