DEAD OR ALIVE レコード& CD

Review: There's a certain drama in the air when the beats kick in with an instant jolt of energy that doesn't let up. The tracks on the second album on Pete Burns-fronted crew are an exuberant mix of bold melodies and infectious rhythms, blending sharp pop with a cheeky edge. You'll know their massive SAW-produced SMASH 'You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)', but the group's unmistakable sense of theatre shines through, with each track feeling like a mini anthem. Whether it's the larger-than-life production or the slightly over-the-top flair, the sound remains unapologetically fun. It's pop at its most playful, wrapped in an unmistakable 80s glow that still carries weight today.

Review: Running Wild - The Inevitable Years offers a captivating glimpse into the formative years of Dead Or Alive, capturing the band's early foray into the post-punk goth scene. Compiled on berry-red vinyl, this release includes two classic and highly collectible Inevitable singles along with related Peel Session recordings, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the band's evolution. Frontman Pete Burns, initially discovered while working at Liverpool's Probe Records during the late 1970s punk rock explosion, quickly rose to prominence as Dead Or Alive's charismatic lead singer. Before achieving pop superstardom, Burns and the band delved into darker musical waters, exploring the burgeoning post-punk Goth scene. Running Wild serves as a sequel and companion to the critically and commercially successful 'Let Them Drag My Soul Away', offering fans and collectors alike a long-awaited back story accompaniment. With its vibrant berry-red vinyl and cover photograph by Dead Or Alive's then-manager Francesco Mellina, this release is a must-have for anyone interested in the early days of Dead Or Alive and the broader post-punk music landscape.

Review: Dead or Alive's 1985 classic 'You Spin Me Round' is one of few quintessential charting darkwave cuts from the 80s and this reissue of the single is a celebration of its infectious energy. As many will recall, Pete Burns' flamboyant vocals are set against driving beats and knocky synth riffs, as the song famously compares the effect of a dizzying new liaison to the spin of a 12". The extended mix found here gives listeners even more of what they love about the song, while the EP's timely follow-up songs like 'Even Better Than The Real Thing' provide an enchanting, atmospheric context.

Review: The Pete Hammond Hi-NRG Remixes presents a nostalgic journey into the classic 80s sound with 11 tracks from Dead Or Alive, expertly remixed by Pete 'Mixmaster' Hammond. Renowned for his work with the band's later recordings, Hammond breathes new life into these tracks with throwback Hi-NRG remixes. Originally issued as a 2LP colored vinyl set for Record Store Day, this project is now available as a 2CD set, catering to both RSD enthusiasts and CD aficionados. These remixes reimagine newer songs in the style of the 1980s, offering a retro take on their original sound. Included in the album are fresh remixes of hits like 'Hit And Run Lover' alongside the 2000 remix of the iconic 'You Spin Me Round (Like A Record)'. Each track is meticulously re-played and reworked by Hammond, capturing the essence of the era and paying homage to Dead Or Alive's iconic sound.