Today we have the fabulous pleasure of premiering the trance and avant grade legend, Arnaud Rebotini’s new video for his remix of “Small Town Boy” by Bronski Beat. The original piece, now sitting at around 23 million plays on Spotify, is a dance music classic from the 80s. Featuring electric vocals, sensual piano melodies, and intimate chords, the tune’s chorus holds a special place in the hearts of many.
Regarding the remix, Rebotini tells us, “It’s always difficult to remix a timeless classic such as ‘Smalltown Boy’. I tried to remain as true to the original as I could.” Despite the difficulty, find that he accomplishes his goal expertly. Rebotini does an excellent Job of capturing the elements of the original, perfectly preserving powerful vocals and etheric synths in the intro. Beginning with the auditory aesthetic of the 80s, the tune quickly accelerates into the 90s with an energetic beat and mystifying trance elements. If you’re trying to break a sweat on the dance floor anytime soon, definitely keep this track in your back pocket.
The remix holds a place in the original soundtrack Rebotini recently developed for the French film 120 Beats Per Minute. The film showcases the dramatic struggle against AIDS that took place in Paris in the 90s. Seeing as Bronski Beat’s lead singer, Jimmy Sommerville, was a well known activist for HIV & AIDS awareness, the remix is certainly well-suited. Check out the video here and be sure to catch the film!
