Remixing orchestral/classical music for clubland always bring a fresh sound to the dance floor, going back to the techno days (with Apotheosis’ infamous bootleg take on Carl Orff’s Carmina Burina as O Fortuna) up to turn-of-the-century trance, with William Orbit’s cover of Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings,” as exquisitely remixed by Ferry Corsten). The source material for “Phat Brahms” is Johannes Brahms’ “Hungarian Dance No 5,” which is instantly recognizable from its many uses in TV shows and movies over the years. The team of Steve Aoki, Angger Dimas, Dimitri Vegas, and Like Mike take the classical piece and warp it with electro, dubstep, and noise. The balance of aggression and pretty works perfectly, though the middle section hints at a kitschier swing sound. Don’t worry, it doesn’t go too far in that direction, and “Phat Brahms” is a standout track that will have clubbers requesting- that classical track. Note to DJs, make sure your light/effects people hear the track before you drop it- that middle section is a perfect time to really intensify the visuals.
Image Courtesy of Dim Mak.
