Customer Reviews

Re-Energized

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Remix albums are mixed bags in that, almost always, the beat is front and center while the hooks, melodies and oftentimes even the vocals are relegated to the background (when they aren't removed altogether). If you're dancing in a club, then that's probably a trade-off you're willing to make; if you're not, then the average remix album will probably disappoint you. Kim English's "Re-Energized" is that rare remix album that works both in a club and in your living room; it's the most listenable collection of remixes I've heard in ages. Overall the production is unobtrusive, letting the singer's warm yet powerful vocals shine. The standout tracks are a cover of Anita Baker's "Been So Long," remixed by the very-hot Wamdue Project; a driving version of "Supernatural" by Michael T. Diamond; and the bouncy No. 1 dance hit "Missing You," mixed by Mind Trap. The now-classic Razor-N-Guido remix of "Unspeakable Joy" is also included, but note that it's in edited form. In fact, for some reason the CD is divided equally between radio edits and long versions. For the most part these remixes actually improve upon the originals (contained on English's excellent 1997 CD "Higher Things") -- and when's the last time you could say that about a remix album? Absolutely essential. Now, can we please get an album of new material?

Even though I wish Kim English would have come out with an album of new material, this collection of (mostly) new remixes is definitely enough to satisfy me until she does. Even though English was definitely on top of her game when she recorded these songs, this album is more about the remixers. These songs were recorded over 2 years ago.

The strongest remixes, in my opinion, are the Junior Vasquez restructuring of "Learn 2 Luv" and the new Wamdue remix of "Been So Long". Kim's voice is so jazzy and perfect for these remixes. She is definitely the dance diva of the moment, but for her career's sake she needs to come out with new material so her label will stop issuing remixes of remixes of her hits!

It's a shame that Kim English's record label have commissioned such a dire set of remixes. In their original form (on the "Higher Things" LP), these songs are soulful house tunes. Almost all of these remixes strip out the subtle melodies and replace them with grating noises and effects, often obliterating Kim English's vocals in the process. Avoid this LP and buy "Higher Things" instead.

Great remix package. Top notch mixes from best US remixers. ... Stunning package!

Just LOVE LOVE LOVE Kim English. I had this cd, but it was lost. So glad to find it again. I listen to it every morning on my way to work to get me pumped up to have a WONDERFUL Day!