On March 31, Remix Artist Collective (RAC) released Part II of Strangers, an assemblage of reproduced, upbeat singles. Founded in January of 2007 by André Allen Adjos of Porto, Portugal, Karl Kling of Portland, Ore. and Andrew Maury of Brooklyn, N.Y., this trio of international musicians attempts to reinterpret various pieces while preserving original personalities.
Although it stands as an album of remixes, Strangers: Part II in no way resembles the work of today’s mainstream electronic producers. RAC does not merely autotune chart-topping choruses or assign verses to looped, computerized rhythms. Instead, RAC maintains each song’s initial structure and embellishes pieces with complementary hooks. Contrasting the solely technological sound of, say, deadmau5, the diverse album features real instrumentation ranging from the violin to xylophone — often performed by RAC members themselves.
Additionally, RAC’s remixes are void of house music’s infamous “drop.” The songs featured on Strangers do not build up to a climax but sustain a high energy from start to finish.
RAC’s characteristic “feel-good” vibe also differentiates this remix album. While big-name electronic artists such as Martin Garrix and Contiez (to name a few) are unquestionably aggressive, the Strangers experience is warm and uplifting. This rare ambiance assures that RAC productions are not limited to the club scene. Listeners will agree that the album can easily score your roadtrip, party or workout.
Since their first successful remix of The Shins’ “Sleeping Lessons,” RAC has collaborated with popular artists including Phoenix, Foster the People, Ra Ra Riot and Two Door Cinema Club amongst many others. Strangers: Part II boasts impressive artists like St. Lucia, as heard in the catchy track, “Ready For It.”
Check out the entire “Strangers” album, for songs like “Hollywood,” “Let Go” and “Cheap Sunglasses” and “Hard to Hold” are bound to impress. Be sure to stay tuned for RAC’s upcoming projects and spread the word about this group’s uniquely addictive sound.
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