Diana Extended: The Remixes Review

07/13/2005 5:42 AM, AMG


For labels, collections of remixes can be the easy way out -- it's easier to remix major hits than to get the artist into the studio to take a chance on some new material. Many have seemed like nothing more than cheap and cynical exploitation. Nonetheless, there's definitely an art to remixing, and with the right DJs, the process can be quite enjoyable. One of the strongest remix albums of the 1990s is Diana Extended, which boasts thoughtful and imaginative work by such mixmasters as David Morales, Steve "Silk" Hurley and Frankie Knuckles (rightly exalted as the Godfather of House). "Love Hangover" and "Upsidedown" work impressively well in a house setting, but the biggest surprise of all is hearing Knuckles successfully bring a '90s club sound to "Someday We'll Be Together" (the CD's only Supremes song). For both Ross devotees and dance music enthusiasts, Diana Extended is highly recommended. ~ Alex Henderson, All Music Guide