Fantastic 80's: Extended

Should I be alarmed that there is a photo of a cassette on the front cover artwork? This conjures up images of poor quality and songs being chewed up in old ghetto blasters! Then, that was all the rage in the eighties I guess. There are twenty six tracks on this album, spread over a couple of discs and it boasts extended versions of pop classics from the eighties. It gets underway with a very predictable footing. Aha's 'Take On Me' is good fun, though I think 'The Sun Always Shines On TV' has the edge and isn't as overplayed. Frankie Goes To Hollywood is a blast, though it does seem quite self absorbed and Holly Johnson's vocals can sound severe at times. Much more ...

Real 80's: Hits And Extended Mixes

Interesting that this should be called 'Real 80's', suggesting that there might be a 'Fake 80's' doing the rounds somewhere. Spread over three discs, there are some classic cuts on here and also some special extended versions. Kraftwerk kick things off. The sound has dated badly, but it is great to return to for nostalgia. 'The Model' is creepy, haunting and mesmerising and you can hear their impact on todays artists; I cite La Roux and Chromeo. Head next to David Bowie, where he turns in an effortless vocal on the hushed 'Ashes To Ashes.' I am not that fond of 'Tainted Love', maybe it is down to overexposure, yet Almond's vocal still stands proud and the bassline is ...

The Original 80s Remix Box Set

More eighties madness ensues with this rather funky little three disc box set of eighties remixes. There are 41 songs on this album, so let's have a peek at the highs and lows. I love Duran Duran so it is a pleasure to see the amazing 'Reflex' here. The dance mix does not subtract too much from the original, keeping the sexy vocals and all the buzz of the pop version. It is followed by Heaven 17's 'Penthouse and Pavement' where sophisticated lyrics meet pop swagger. The remix adds a dancier edge and gives it some dancefloor sensibility too. There is a belter of a remix of OMD, courtesy of Sash. The eurodance mix brings it bang up to date while keeping the synth which ...