Reviews by craigg |
all
c64 only
Amiga only
Displaying Reviews 1 - 29 out of 29 |
Login |
ACE 2 (Danger Zone Edit) - arranged by Dr FutureReview by craigg, 22/10/2022 I’ve always felt quite a few C64 SIDs could be full pop songs (or dance numbers), rather than instrumental rearrangements. The trick is in finding the tracks with the most suitable riffs and reworking them in a manner that makes sense. This is an excellent reimagining of a Hubbard track that hits all the right notes. Top stuff. |
|
Ballblazer (feat. Beastie Boys) - arranged by Romeo KnightReview by craigg, 09/02/2006 With the majority of C64 remixes being SIDs reworked with new instruments, it's great to hear something that wouldn't sound out of place in the charts - a genuine, high-quality mash-up. The Ballblazer riff is, of course, one of the very few available SIDs that have sufficient hook for pop tracks, and also to carry the kind of vocals in this track.I'm no Beastie Boys fan, but I still rate this track highly anyway, partly because it's clearly a decent production, partly because it just sounds good, and partly because this is the direction C64 remixes really need to be going in for the scene to have a future - actual songs, not just SID "X" the orchestral version, SID "X" the "rock" version, SID "X" the "take the MIDI and assign some fairly random instruments to it" version. Good stuff, Romeo Knight. More, please. |
|
Giana Sisters (Keep Da Scene Alive) - arranged by DHSReview by craigg, 22/04/2004 As always, DHS manages to transcend the typical C64 remix by some margin, creating a catchy and memorable track in the process. Although this remix wears its influences - the oft-maligned Scooter - rather more blatantly on its sleeve than most, the remix is none the worse for it. And instead of getting a 'cutesy' Giana mix (as many remixers are prone to doing), we have a pumping dance track that's every bit the equal of any other C64 remix chart wannabe (and perhaps hints at the style of C64 remix that might make it into the public consciousness post-Zombie Nation).It's perhaps inevitable that this track won't appeal to those people that eschew dance music, although it's worth pointing out that the odd sublime moment is in evidence, providing a counterpoint to the relentless beat and Giania-originated hooks (notably the strings/vocals prior to the 'list'). Makke's aping of the Scooter vocalist brings the whole thing together, and even if the list of names gets a little tedious at times, one has to marvel at the sheer audacity of the overall track - at the very least, it should bring a smile to your face. |
|
Way of the Exploding Fist - arranged by Puffy64Review by craigg, 22/07/2003 Of all the SIDs available, Puffy64 decided to take the subtle, oriental Way of the Exploding Fist, and turn it into an explosion of drums and electric guitars. The blast is short - a minute and a half - blink and you'll miss it.The two main sections of the track are repeated twice, with the 'band' going into 'psycho overdrive mode' for the second part, the drums being played at breakneck speed. Despite (or perhaps in spite of) the absurd nature of the piece, it works. Just look before you leap - if you're expecting another laid-back, 'softly softly' version of Brennan's classic SID, you'll be somewhat surprised… |
|
Dutch Breeze/Robocop 3 (Progressive Uplift) - arranged by LagerfeldtReview by craigg, 22/07/2003 For some reason Jeroen Tel's SIDs rarely work when remixed, perhaps due to their already 'complete' sound on the C64. However, this remix bucks the trend and then some. Lagerfeldt's mix may not be the most innovate we've seen, but it takes the original SID and puts it on overdrive, and to great effect. The addition of the club-like intro is inspired, providing the track with pace right from the start, and a major improvement over the slightly slow build of the original. The choice of instruments is pretty much flawless throughout, and while the inclusion of samples perhaps borders on the cheesy, they're not overdone. Overall, if you're a Tel fan, download this. If you're not, download it anyway, because this remix is great. |
|
International Karate - arranged by Bas LookmanReview by craigg, 22/07/2003 Sometimes a remix comes along that isn't technically great and strays from the original in all manner of irritating ways, yet somehow still manages to shine: this is one such remix. Despite various aspects of Hubbard's original melody getting butchered, the playful nature of this remix should bring a smile to your face (unless you're a miserable git, in which case it might make you chuck your monitor out of the window). The bleepy lead, overlaid several times at the end, and clattering rhythms end up turning this into IK - the 'cute' mix. If you're a Hubbard fan who can't stand anything but a true 'one to one' conversion then stay well away, but for anyone wanting something a bit different (and totally irreverent) the small download is well worth it. |
|
Magic Disk Issue 09/90 Human BB Remix - arranged by LagerfeldtReview by craigg, 22/07/2003 Lagerfeldt's entrance into the C64 remix scene continues to yield positive results, with this chunky version of Detert's original. Combining a C64 sound-a-like lead, beatbox vocal effects, and production values to make you weep (in a good way), it remains faithful to the original's melodies, but updates the sound, giving the track some much-needed life. While the original is hardly one of the best-known SID pieces (or one of Detert's best compositions), give this remix a try if you simply want to hear a good tune. |
|
Ocean Loader 4.5 (Feel The Beat) - arranged by Sonic WandererReview by craigg, 14/07/2003 These days it takes a lot to excite when presented with yet another Ocean Loader tune, but this take achieves the near impossible, hitting the right emotional strands and combining them with a kick-ass beat, driving home the power behind the original.Occasional stabs at variation exist: the moody intro and slightly clunky, sample-ridden middle eight, but neither detract from the track as a whole, although any head-nodding has to take a back seat while the middle eight plays its course. Some might complain that the track doesn't stick rigidly to the original arrangement for its entire length, but I don't really care about that. All I know is that too much criticism would simply be churlish when presented by a mix that just feels so good when you listen to it. |
|
Lightforce - arranged by X-formZReview by craigg, 23/06/2003 Forsaking the original's clattering, atmospheric beats, X-formZ takes Hubbard's original track and forces it into the world of pop. With an introduction that puts one in mind of the theme tune to '80s TV hit Airwolf (which one often suspects this track is based on) the feel is light and airy, but still retains some of the atmosphere of the original composition. After the glittery into, the soft piano lead is joined by playful electronics; a stomping, relentless beat and bass line contrast these elements well, even if the latter is rather overpowering.Unlike most Lightforce remixes, this version avoids covering the entire track, wisely lasting a perfect pop three-and-a-half minutes, and ensuring the listener doesn't tire of the bouncy beats. Furthermore, it adds some much-needed innovation to the pile of accurate but otherwise tired Lightforce remixes, and comes out vying with schema F's danced-up reworking for the bet remix of the track so far. |
|
Parallax (MC Version) - arranged by CytexReview by craigg, 30/05/2003 Seasoned C64 remix aficionados with no doubt already have a plethora of Parallax reworkings, including those on the Back in Time CDs and CD-ROMs, so do we need another? Cytex's fairly straight version smoothes out the original harsh exterior, creating a warm, engrossing take on Galway's track, which only falters on occasion when the slightly piercing lead take precedence or slips from the original's melody. Generally, the sounds are well thought out, especially the relaxed drums, and fans of the original should take a look. |
|
Thanatos (Chemical in Your Brain Remix) - arranged by PeacemakerReview by craigg, 03/05/2003 While I think it's safe to say Peacemaker's rather taken liberties with Hubbard's original (he himself describes it as a 'remix in a mix') this isn't immediately problematic. The piece's atmospheric and upbeat start made me think I was in for a quality, Chemical Brothers style, electronic remix, but around the half-way point, the entire flavour of the remix changes in a rather uncomfortable way. It becomes cleaner, and directly ports the original's lead, but in doing this, the track becomes fragmented and disjointed. This eventually gives way, again returning to the crunchy opening sound.Therefore, while both parts of the remix are pretty well done in their own right, the piece comes off more like a medley than a 'whole' remix. In conclusion, good but flawed. |
|
Suicide Express - arranged by BaRReview by craigg, 03/05/2003 With Crowther's original being a big old Blade Runner rip-off this track rather fits in the 'cover of a cover' category, but is none the worse off for it. Taking a squarely trance/dancefloor approach, BaR's remix comes off like an accomplished Vangelis 12".The lead, which was harsh and hair-raising in Crowther's original, has been toned down, and sits comfortably alongside a fairly standard set of trance sounds. While lacking anything to truly dazzle, BaR's mix is nonetheless catchy and extremely listenable, with pleasant sounds throughout and an incessant beat to keep you engrossed. |
|
Last Ninja Remix (Armakuni in New York) - arranged by YoshiReview by craigg, 03/05/2003 Ouwehand's Last Ninja music tended to take more of a filmic stance than the original tunes, and Yoshi's remix enhances this feel, bringing to mind the ideal soundtrack for the film of the game. The mellow sounds and occasional, carefully chosen samples lend the piece a warm atmosphere that encapsulates, while the dirty but effective drumloops effortlessly carry the track over its four-and-a-half minute length. Recommended. |
|
Last Ninja 2 - Park Loader (Rumbler Remix) - arranged by MaindrianReview by craigg, 03/05/2003 With the rock overtones evident in the original C64 track, Mandrian's choice of style for this cover is pretty logical. The electric guitar is turned to 'crunchy distortion mode' and its powerful edge holds the piece together. Elsewhere, sounds are largely well chosen, and their mostly electronic nature both provides a useful contrast to the relentless guitar, echoing the original SID.While the mix is perhaps a little long and drags a little towards the end, it mostly manages to hold the attention and is well worth a download for Matt Grey and rock fans alike. |
|
Miss ParkPatrol takes a Break (feat.Elsa Persson) - arranged by MahoneyReview by craigg, 22/04/2003 Another typically quirky remix finds its way from Mahoney's warped brain to RKO. I'm not sure what's in the water where he lives, but I'm sure we'd all like some of it… Anyway, Park Patrol is on a mission to funk, with its catchy riff rendered in warbly female vocals, occasionally giving way to a crunchy rendition of Breakdance. It breaks lots of rules, and shouldn't work, but it does. It's catchy, toe-tapping stuff, which will have lovers of straightforward SID remixes running for the hills and everyone else wondering what on earth they just heard, before wanting to hear it again, just one more time… |
|
Target Renegade (Level 1) - arranged by Clayton MarslandReview by craigg, 22/04/2003 Once in a while a remix comes along that manages to succeed for me, despite the lack of nostalgia. While not being all that familiar with the original, I enjoyed listening to Marsland's effort all the same. The build into the main part of the piece seems almost filmic, and works well, with elements being gradually introduced to the mix. Wisely, he then chooses to offset the complex, 'noodly' lead with a relentless, engrossing beat, which rapidly becomes hypnotic and seems to hold the piece together. It would be all too easy to drag this track on and on, but it ends at a suitable 'pop' 3:15 before it's in any danger of becoming dull. Recommended. |
|
Last Ninja 2 - The Basement - arranged by Dave BrybeReview by craigg, 22/04/2003 While it may not have been to everyone's taste, Zombie Nation at least proved that competent, mainstream dance remixes of C64 tunes are perhaps the way to commercial viability. This mix sits squarely in the same field--a fast, energetic techno tune, which would not be out of place in clubs across the land. However, in the conversion to this style, the piece has lost most of the soul of the original. Dance music aficionados will most likely lap this up, but stoic fans of the original SID should probably steer clear. |
|
Samurai Warrior (Usagi Y Mix) - arranged by MajkolReview by craigg, 27/03/2003 Neil Brennan's catchy, oriental-tinged tunes have produced a wealth of excellent C64 remixes and Majkol's treatment of Samurai Warrior is no exception. From beginning to end, it mirrors the inherent energy of the original, overlaying several simple melodies to great effect. The drums, while following the same basic pattern as the original, have a number of important additions, which help to carry the track through its four-minute length.While this mix wins few points for innovation, it's practically flawless in every other respect and, as such, comes highly recommended. |
|
Human Race - arranged by Markus SchneiderReview by craigg, 27/03/2003 Schneider's take on Hubbard's classic composition proves that even a fairly unremarkable remix can work wonders if the original source material is good enough. Despite not really straying from the original, the instrumentation is well chosen, and the addition of occasional, haunting female vocals adds some much-needed atmosphere to the mix, helping to move it into the? chillout zone'. Because of the dreamlike state induced, the repetitious nature of the track isn't a problem, although the lack of bass and over-emphasised mid-range sounds sometimes make the mix feel a little flat. Nevertheless, this is generally a good effort, and a perfect track to relax to. |
|
Aztec Challenge - arranged by IceXuickReview by craigg, 27/03/2003 Despite sometimes sounding like an Amiga MOD, and some bum notes sitting within the bassline, IceXuick provides a different spin to Aztec Challenge. The frantic nature of the instrumentation and arrangement bring to mind the original's feel. To my mind, this is more appropriate, if perhaps less accomplished, than the orchestral Aztec Challenge arrangements that many remixers seem to favour. The result is a track has plenty of energy and atmosphere, although I could have done without the metallic voice constantly repeating 'Aztec Challenge' over and over again. In conclusion, a decent effort, if flawed, but something that Paul Norman fans will most likely enjoy. |
|
KikStart 2 - arranged by IceXuickReview by craigg, 26/03/2003 Due to the twee nature of the original, I never thought I'd see a quality KikStart 2 mix grace R:K:O. IceXuick has managed the seemingly impossible by creating a chart-worthy dance track, based on the title screen music of the classic budget game.It takes a while to get going, but once the relentless rhythm is introduced, its momentum effortlessly carries the rest of the track. While this commercial sounding entity may be too repetitive for some, club aficionados will most likely lap it up, and the track bodes well for future IceXuick mixes and 'Sout' takes alike. |
|
The Last Ninja 3 Intro - arranged by IceXuickReview by craigg, 26/03/2003 This is almost a one-to-one cover of the original Ouwehand piece, and includes some SID-like chord pulses to good effect. Elsewhere, IceXuick has wisely decided to move away from the orchestral sound-set used by Ouwehand and several others since, instead concentrating on powerful synth sounds. This has resulted in a rich, emotive and powerful mix that is worthy of the original composition, although anyone looking for an original and innovative take on this track would do well to look elsewhere. |
|
Thrust (Magnificent Worlds) - arranged by FeekZoidReview by craigg, 26/03/2003 While not being a direct cover of Thrust, Feekzoid's Magnificent Worlds manages to eek out the power of Hubbard's C64 original and intensify it. Clever use of muted SID sounds are melded with powerful drums and industrial sounds that slowly build and encapsulate the listener. A break at the mid-point finds Thrust giving way to an alternate reality version of Arcade Classics, performed with pseudo-orchestral charm rather than the breakneck guitars of the original. Thrust's crunchy goodness then makes a brief and welcome return to complete the remix in fine style.Although there have been wilder remixes in the past, Feekzoid's lack of adherence to the original tune is a breath of fresh air, and he successfully manages the difficult task of combining two very different styles. While there are a few technical niggles here and there, it would be churlish to overly criticise a remix that proves to be inventive, interesting, listenable, and still remain at least partly true to the original. Recommended. |
|
Delta (Concert version) - arranged by Noviello PippoReview by craigg, 26/03/2003 This remix clearly has a case of too many ideas fighting for space within a limited amount of time. The start of the track introduces the familiar Delta melody, as played on piano. While nothing spectacular, this is pleasant and fairly engaging, but things start to go awry around the halfway point. A few cymbal clashes introduce a clapping crowd that sounds fake and out of place. Twenty seconds later and the sedate, clapping crowd begins cheering wildly as the entire remix is wrenched uncomfortably into pseudo-techno mode, complete with cliché drum patterns and dance sounds.It's difficult to succeed when creating a remix that tries to marry two such diverse styles. This remix ends up feeling half-finished, and sits neither in one place nor the other. As a curiosity, it also lacks the ingenious oddness of a Dead Guys remix, and, as such, I'd have much preferred to have heard an extended version of the first minute… without the clapping. |
|
Ocean Loader Four - arranged by YoshiReview by craigg, 26/03/2003 It's always odd to see how poorly many of the classic C64 tunes fare when remixed. This tune is no exception, with several mediocre renditions for every success. Unfortunately, this version tends towards the former category.It starts well enough, with a suitably squelchy bassline, and crunchy drums reminiscent of Ambra Red's rhythmic style. Regrettably, the lead sounds rather weak in comparison; consequently the drums tend to end up overpowering the rest of the mix. There's also a distinct lack of innovation in evidence here--these days people tend to want more than straight covers of C64 tunes with new voices. It's not all bad news though. The notes are accurate, and the use of SID sounds works fairly well. However, for me, this is no longer enough to excite. |
|
Sanx(ion) from the moment we kissed - arranged by J LofReview by craigg, 18/02/2003 It's about time someone other than Chris Abbott (and perhaps Phil Bak) supplied us with a decent Sanxion remix, and preferably something a little different from the original. This dance-em-up attempts to take the track into 'clubland', and to some extent, it succeeds. Despite the loops sounding all-too-familiar, the beginning of the track is catchy and builds well. However, J Lof comes a cropper by screwing up a couple of later sections of the track. While I'm all for remixes that aren't direct covers, it still helps if you get the melody right. Also, the vocal samples rapidly become downright irritating.So, once again, we're left with a painfully average version of Hubbard's greatest. Oh well, back to Back in Time… |
|
Last Ninja Remix - Sewers (soft mix) - arranged by CytexReview by craigg, 18/02/2003 The original Ryuichi Sakamoto track that Ouewhand's piece is based on is so beautiful that's it's tough not to do it justice. Staying away from the oriental leanings of the original and the tough sounds of Ouwehand's C64 version, this remix begins well, with gentle but engrossing backing. However, the weak lead instruments--particularly the piano--and occasional bum note go some way to ruining what had the potential to be a much better remix. |
|
Arabian Zoids (Themed Solo) - arranged by LarsecReview by craigg, 18/02/2003 For all its pseudo-industrial stomping, Zoids is actually a quite beautiful piece of music, as proven by O2's wonderful and lasting treatment of it, which also ended up on Back in Time 3. In some ways this remix follows a similar path, exploring the ambient side to the piece. The guitar lead, which could easily have jarred, is pushed back to good effect in the mix, and the bass pulses to add strength to the arrangement.In some cases it perhaps moves a little too far from the original arrangement, and there's a little too much noodling here and there, but it would be churlish to penalise such an accomplished remix for a few minor niggles. |
|
Cauldron II - I am a Pumpkin Man - arranged by traumaReview by craigg, 18/02/2003 Every once in a while, something comes along in the C64 remix scene that makes everyone sit up and take notice. This is one such track. We've had orchestral remixes, dance treatments, C64 tracks with lyrics, and more, but now we descend into total madness. In something akin from the warped brains of the Dead Guys versus Makke on speed, combined with a good dose of Jarre and NIN, Trauma creates one of the most original, funny and downright catchy C64 remixes of all time. The perhaps Zoolook-inspired intro is a red herring to what follows: a gradual build up of the original theme, laced with vocal treatment and funky drums, followed by a pseudo-industrial ending from C64 hell. Worthy of the bizarre nature of the original game, and should be required listening for fans of C64 remixes. |
|