As our topic for the week was ‘Remixes’, I thought it would be interesting (and entertaining) to look at a number of products which demonstrate aspects of the remix form and consider how new meaning has been created from existing pieces of work. Throughout Dan’s presentation, I continuously thought of different products which could be used as examples of the techniques and ideas that were discussed. I will share and discuss these examples below…
1. ‘Everyday Chemistry’ – (The Beatles???)
What could have happened if The Beatles never broke up? The anonymous creator of the website ‘thebeatlesneverbrokeup.com’ claims that he was transported into an alternate reality in which John, Paul, George and Ringo had continued to release albums – one of these being titled ‘Everyday Chemistry’. He created a very intriguing story, detailing how he came into possession of the tape (CD’s had not been invented in this alternate reality) – with a level of depth which makes the story almost believable. In reality however, the album (created by the anonymous website owner) consists of tracks created using samples from songs John Lennon and Paul McCartney produced after the band had broken up. They have been skilfully crafted and he has been successful in producing an album that is somewhat true to The Beatles’ style while also remaining very original and creative. I feel that in this instance, not knowing where the samples come from adds to the listeners engagement and amazement – this is contrary to a concept that Dan presented, which suggested that remixes rely on knowledge of the source materials.
https://youtu.be/AV1jKBrw0ck
2. 1001 Movies You Must See (SuperCut/Compilation/Remix)
I think the form of a Super-Cut certainly displays aspects of remix culture, especially when they are created to be more than just a simple compilation product. In videos such as this one, hundreds of existing media products may be combined to create a presentation which interacts within itself and which can be considered highly creative and unique. In ‘1001 Movies’, clips from an enormous range of films have been edited together so that dialogue from different films interacts and so that audiences are bombarded with visual information throughout the 10 minute edit. I think this is a great example of how a compilation/list-based video can be constructed in a unique and artistic way.
3. Wndrwll (Neil Cicierega – Remix)
I thought I would finish up this post with a humorous example of another remixed product. This song samples Oasis’ ‘Wonderwall’ and also includes a section of the Full House theme song. Similar to Girl Talk’s style, the original material has been largely deconstructed and played with, resulting in a unique final product.