Reprise-Remixes
Deutsche Grammophon, 2022
8/10
I guess when you reach the level of success that Moby resides in, most of your work is going to be remixed in some capacity. Here, 9 different songs are present- and some multiple times- as excellent guest vocals allow them to shine in a very new light despite still remaining true to Moby's creative vision.
Planningtorock’s version of “Heroes” opens the listen with a thumping, driving energy and falsetto vocals that’s tailor made for the dance floor, and Christian Loffler’s take on “Porcelain” follows with a calmer pace of dreamy electronica that even brings in Jim James for the mysterious vocal work.
Further on, the soaring vocals of “Natural Blues” recruits Gregory Porter and Amythyst Kiah for the Topic remix that’s quite soulful but also buzzes with an infectious beat, while “Lift Me Up” showcases the skills of Mathame for the skittering beats, deep vocals and strong sound manipulation.
Inching towards the end, the soothing piano of ”The Great Escape” is a nice departure from the quick club sounds of the earlier tunes, as Nataly Dawn, Alice Skye and Luna Li create much sublime intimacy that’s rich with haze, and Peter Gregson’s take on “Extreme Ways” recruits strings into the very sophisticated, orchestral album highlight that comes with expressive, poetic singing from Gregson.
If you’re a Moby fan, you’ve heard these songs many times before in several forms. These versions might be some of the best yet, and they sure are diverse.
Travels well with: Morcheeba- Head Up High; The Orb- NSAOOB