It’s So Much Better Now

Basement Jaxx “U Don’t Know Me (Jaxx Houz Club Mix)” – The version of “U Don’t Know Me” on Basement Jaxx’s singles compilation seems so lethargic compared to this hyperkinetic remix. The melody and structure was all right there, but it lacked the visceral power of this mix, which seems to be overflowing with physical energy and raw sexuality like all of the best Jaxx tracks. There’s not a lot more to say about it, though. It’s pretty much a force of nature. (Click here to buy it from Amazon and here to see the very amusing music video.)

John Vanderslice “crc7173, Affectionately” – Hammond B-3 organs can be so tricky. The sound of the instrument can be lovely and wonderfully effective, but if you’re going to use them on a mid-tempo rock ballad, you’ve got to accept that on some level, you’re going to sound like The Wallflowers, Counting Crows or any number of similar cheesy 90s bands who have used the instrument as a signifier for mild country and/or gospel flavor. John Vanderslice manages to keep the comforting sound of the organ without dipping too heavily into nostalgia, and keep the arrangement spare and sparkly enough to avoid sounding soggy or particularly nostalgic. (Click here to pre-order it from Barsuk.)