Singles
George Michael - Flawless (Go To the City)
George Michael manages to effortlessly update the sound and feel of classic disco with a contemporary technological sheen. This sounds great in the club, on the radio and at home. Absolute proof George Michael does NOT need controversial material to ignite a dancefloor. The video is outstanding, too and has gained a Grammy Award nomination for short form music video of the year.
Duran Duran - (Reach Up For the) Sunrise
The album may be a bit lackluster, but this cheerful romp that brings back the band's glory days gave them their first #1 dance chart hit in 15 years and deservedly so. It includes a killer, club sing-a-long chorus. Look for audiences to already know this by heart when Duran Duran sets out on the road early next year.
Prince - Cinnamon Girl
And We Danced called this as one of the best songs off the Musicology comeback album way back in April, and the video gained it plenty of attention in the fall. Ignore the controversy and revel in the sunny pop melody, rock guitars, and irresistible beat. It's classic Prince and that's a good thing.
Depeche Mode - Enjoy the Silence (Timo Maas remix)
The Maas remix is a gorgeous reworking to launch Depeche Mode forward and plant the public interest in the album currently in earliest planning stages. It is amazing how good Depeche Mode songs continue to sound every time remix technology takes a leap forward. Visitors to And We Danced voted this the top Depeche Mode song of all time, and they're right.
Pet Shop Boys - Flamboyant
And We Danced review
This single was nearly lost in the shuffle last winter, but it sounds like most of the best work of Neil and Chris, effortless. It's a playful jab at gay community excess and, with Neil's voice and characteristic lyrical wit, it's another classic. Don't miss the video's riff on Japanese commercial excess featuring Chris and Neil as actors in faux commercials.
Albums
Teena Marie - La Dona
And We Danced review
When a past star returns, it is indeed rare to say they are better than ever and mean it. This is that rare exception. Lady T is back and this time, taking on the persona of funk matriarch, she is amazing. Kudos go to rap label Cash Money for signing her to kick off their Cash Money Classics subsidiary. From its beginning with the humor of a takeoff on Mexican telenovelas, this album is a tour de force of contemporary and classic r&b and jazz. She has spent nearly half of 2004 on the r&b singles and album charts. Listen and you will understand why.
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