Party Favorz

The Mixtape Sessions [November 2014]

Welcome to the final Mixtape Sessions of 2014 and what a treat this set is!  We got a lot to cover here so let’s get right to it.
Kicking things off is “Give Me Sunshine” by Santa Maradona F.C. featuring Lucy Spraggan.  Think of the first time you heard that “feel-good” song on the radio and your body’s endorphins just suddenly flooded your brain with all sorts of goodwill and happy feelings.  Maybe you recently got that feeling when you heard Pharell’s “Happy” or perhaps back in the day with Sheryl Crow’s “All I Wanna Do.”  “Give Me Sunshine” is simply one of those songs.  A simple narrative that tells a story set to a bouncy beat goes a long way in my book.
“Sunshine” bleeds into  EelkeKleijn’s “Mistakes I've Made,” which is set to a backdrop of an old western theme with a deep house beat.  The song recounts all the past mistakes made in his life but does reconcile that he “gets stronger” and leaves the question if there is a future.  Keeping up with the indie-house inspiration, I paired this song with “Netzwerk (Falls Like Rain)” by Klangkarussell (another soothing deep house tune with a surprising Afro-choir dropped in during the chorus).
From here, we begin a transition from indie-deep-house (Soul For You) to more soulful deep house “Mood For You” by Knox and Moss.
The big surprise here is the Justin Faust rework of Janet Jackson’s early millennial hit “Someone To Call My Lover.”  While I've been a bit skeptical of the gender-bending vocal remixes that are currently the trend, it works surprisingly well here.
Sam Smith doesn’t need any more praise, so I’ll move on to Zhu whose anonymity and solid productions have quickly raised his or her’s recognition since being introduced earlier this year.  “Faded” is a deep and moody deep house that is intriguing while at the same time comes across as a bit disturbing.  I love this song but can’t help picturing it in some dark seedy movie about a serial killer LOL.  It gives me chills.
BIG HEADS UP to How To Dress Well and the Cyril Hahn remix of his “Precious Love.”  This is a sweet slice of R&B electronica-pop and shows a budding untapped talent that deserves to be plucked for greater things.  At the very least we need to get him some Pro Tools to master his music, but don’t let that distract from the true talent invoked in his music.
Perhaps the one song that not only struck a chord with me but I've had on repeat for over a month is Birdy’s “Skinny Love.”  Sebastian Carter does the remix honor here by turning in an addictive and hypnotic beat that sucks you in with Birdy’s alluring vocals.  He also buries the lyrics in the beats with the exception of
"And I told you to be patient
And I told you to be fine
And I told you to be balanced
And I told you to be kind"
allowing listeners not familiar with the original to turn the song into whatever they want it to mean to them.  Crying and driving around the ATL late at night listening to this song has done just that, so let’s move on shall we.
I change course with the excellent Diplo remix of Zola Jesus’ “Go Blank Sea.”  When you get to the break with this kind of gangsta-electronic swag, you’ll have your hands swaying in the air.
This all leads to another go-to song of the moment, “Beggin for Thread” by BANKS.  If you bank this against (no pun intended) Keiza’s latest “Giant in My Heart” also included in this set, you’ll get the sense I’m a sucker love-lost songs.  Okay, I am but these songs are so cleverly written and crafted it’s hard not to be sucked in.
If anyone that Chainsmokers are just one-offs with hits like “Selfie” and “Kanye” better think again.  These guys are proving their in tune pop sensibilities and are quickly rising to the level of Calvin Harris with Anna of the North’s “Sway.”  I fully expect to be hearing a lot more from these guys in 2015.
Additional indie (Crystaleyes) and deep house tunes (Slip Away, Falling in Love, We Were Young) round out the best of the rest until we g...

Lisa Stansfield | The Diva Series

Lisa Stansfield is a UK-born singer and actress who reached the top of the charts in 1990 with her major-label debut album “Around the World.”  That album and subsequent albums yielded multiple top-10 hits but most were contained in the UK and Europe.
Remixed by some of the biggest house music producers (Frankie Knuckles, Shep Pettibone, Hex Hector, Junior Vasquez, David Morales) Lisa enjoyed multiple #1 club hits in the US and around the globe.  Hits like “People Hold On,” “I’m Leavin,” and  “Never Gonna Fall” solidified her credentials among club-goers and the gay community.
Lisa is still going strong with a new album titled “Seven” released earlier this year and two singles also represented in this set (Can’t Dance, So Be It) and has been touring Europe in support of the new album.
Highly regarded for her amazing soulful voice by critics and fans alike, Lisa deservedly belongs in the Diva Hall of Fame.  It is with great respect that Party Favorz honors Lisa Stansfield with this induction.
Donate and keep the party going!
Album : Lisa Stansfield | The Diva Series
Genre : House,  Soulful
Year : 2014
Total Time : 1:47:47.00
1. Change (Frankie Knuckles Ultimate Club Mix)
2. Make Love To Ya (Light Me Up Mix)
3. Live Together (Extended Version)
4. This Is The Right Time (Shep's Extended Mix)
5. What Did I Do To You (Morales Mix)
6. Can't Dance (Moto Blanco Club Mix)
7. Never Gonna Fall (Junior Vasquez Mix)
8. All Around The World (Long Version)
9. Little Bit Of Heaven (Junior Vocal Mix)
10. So Be It (Cahill Club Mix)
11. 8-3-1 (David Morales Club Mix Long Intro)
12. The Real Thing (Mark!'s Good Time Disco Vocal)
13. Someday (I'm Coming Back) (Classic 12'' Club Mix)
14. Everything Will Get Better (Extended Mix)
15. I'm Leavin' (Hex Hector Club Mix)
16. People Hold On (12'' Version) [feat. Coldcut]
17. Never, Never Gonna Give You Up (7th Heaven Mix)

Thunderpuss Dance Music Tribute Mix Volume 1

In the realm of dance music production, Thunderpuss, comprising Barry Harris and Chris Cox, was arguably the most formidable remix and production team of the past decade. They've lent their extraordinary talents to remixes for iconic divas like Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Madonna, Christina Aguilera, Cher and Britney Spears. However, in 2003, the duo disbanded, leaving their massive fan base craving more.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HExfhJdotx0
Chris Cox sustained his career momentum, consistently delivering #1 club remixes that are still in high demand today. Barry Harris took a different route, stepping back from the limelight for several years. He re-emerged in 2010, igniting rumors that Thunderpuss might reunite and even tour. Unfortunately, those whispers proved to be mere speculation.
For avid followers of Party Favorz, it's no secret that Barry Harris has been on a remixing spree, each one as stellar as the last. Similarly, Chris Cox's work still pulsates through dance floors around the globe. Their independent projects invoke a tantalizing question: What direction might Thunderpuss have taken if they'd stayed united?
Feeling inspired by their individual contributions to the dance music landscape, we dug deep into the Party Favorz archives to bring back this electrifying two-volume tribute to Thunderpuss featuring some of their biggest dance floor masterpieces like Amber's "Sexual (Di Da Di)" and the remix that brought them to the world's attention "It's Not Right But It's Okay" by the incromprable Whitney Houston.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URl05jN6KrE
Whether working in tandem or flying solo, both Barry and Chris remain unparalleled masters of dance production. So let's take a musical journey back to the early 2000s and relive those unforgettable beats.
Until the next time...ENJOY!
Donate and keep the party going!
Album : Thunderpuss Tribute Volume 1
Genre : Circuit, Tribal, Progressive
Year : 2014
Total Time : 01:55:58
1. Thunderpuss - Papa's Got A Brand New Pigbag (TP Mixshow Edit)
2. Taylor Dayne - Naked Without You (TP 2000 Club Anthem)
3. Britney Spears - Sometimes (TP 2000 Club Mix)
4. Cher - Song For The Lonely (TP Club Mix)
5. Jennifer Lopez - Alive (TP Club Mix)
6. Kim English - Higher Things (TP Club Anthem)
7. Backstreet Boys - The Call (TP Club Mix)
8. Mandy Moore - In My Pocket (TP Club Mix)
9. Whitney Houston - It's Not Right But It's Ok (TP 2000 Mixshow)
10. Ultra Nate - Desire (TP 2000 Club Mix)
11. LeAnn Rimes - Can't Fight The Moonlight (TP Club Mix)
12. Kristine W - Clubland (TP Club Mix)
13. Christina Aguilera, Lil Kim, Mya & Pink - Lady Marmalade (TP Mixshow Mix)
14. Amber - Sexual (Li Da Di) (TP 2000 Club Mix)
15. Ann Nesby - Lovin' Is Really My Game (TP 2000 Remix)
16. Madonna - Don't Tell Me (TP 2001 Hands In The Air Anthem)

Thunderpuss Dance Music Tribute Volume 2

We're back with another sensational volume of the Thunderpuss Dance Music Tribute, brought to you exclusively by Party Favorz. If you thought Volume 1 was a dance floor burner, then hold onto your glow sticks because Volume 2 will transport you to another level of auditory bliss. This compilation showcases the sheer mastery that Thunderpuss—the dynamic duo of Barry Harris and Chris Cox—brought to the world of dance music.
Let's kick things off with Abigail's "Let The Joy Rise." The genius of Thunderpuss lies not just in their ability to create beats but also in their knack for elevating a song's emotional core. They weave a magnetic tapestry of sound that transforms Abigail's classic into a euphoric anthem.
And speaking of anthems, who can forget Janet Jackson's "All For You"? The Thunderpuss treatment of this banger makes it near-impossible to stay seated. With its thumping bass and nuanced touches, it’s a quintessential example of their artistry, making us all long for the dance floor.
Shifting the vibe, we delve into the synth-laden territory of Pet Shop Boys' iconic track, "New York City Boy." Thunderpuss takes this already magnetic tune and catapults it into the stratosphere of gay anthems. Imagine this: you're in a packed club, and the mid-section of the song hits. Suddenly, a men's chorus starts belting out "vodka" in a rhythmic chant, and the room erupts into a euphoric frenzy. It's not just a night in New York City; it's a night that defines what it means to be fabulous. This remix captures the essence of liberation and celebration, resonating from the towering skyscrapers to the pulsing heart of the LGBTQ+ community. It's sophisticated, it's glamorous, and above all, it's a dance floor essential.
For those who love their dance tracks infused with a tinge of melodrama, Amber’s “Above The Clouds” and Lara Fabian's "I Will Love Again" hit the spot. Thunderpuss elevates both songs into celestial experiences. The remixes are like a double shot of adrenaline to the heart, lifting you above any turmoil and into a state of bliss.
When it comes to floor-filling remixes of "Stranger In My House" by Tamia, both HQ2 and Thunderpuss delivered versions that never failed to ignite the dance floor. Hex Hector and Mac Quayle's take is a pulsating mix that turns the introspective original into a seismic anthem, while Thunderpuss injects a relentless energy that keeps revelers entranced. The incredible thing is that despite their different stylistic approaches, both remixes serve as potent catalysts for dance floor euphoria. You could be in the same club and hear both versions in one night, each eliciting its own unique yet equally electrifying reaction from the crowd.
Switching gears to Mary J. Blige's "No More Drama," this track was transformed into a monumental gay anthem by Thunderpuss. It begins with a sample from the Young & the Restless theme song in its extended intro, setting the stage for what's about to unfold. Slowly but surely, it builds into a colossal wall of tribal beats that serve as the perfect backdrop for Mary J. Blige's soaring vocals. This isn't just a song; it's an emotional journey. It resonates deeply with those in the LGBTQ+ community who are struggling with addiction, as it tackles the arduous but necessary path from a life of chaos to one of sobriety and improved living.
Whether it's "Stranger In My House" or "No More Drama," Thunderpuss had a knack for turning already impactful songs into unforgettable, life-affirming dance anthems. Both tracks epitomize the transformative power of music, especially for communities that see themselves reflected in the lyrics and feel their spirits lifted by the beats.
Last but not least, we have Whitney Houston's "Try It On My Own.” The Thunderpuss mix transforms this ballad into an empowering dance floor hit that resonates with anyone who’s ever struggled to find their place in the world. It's a testament to Thunderpuss' range and depth as ar...

Halloween Edition 2K14

Thanks to Barry Harris’ early morning drop of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” on his Soundcloud page, I was forced to postpone the Halloween Edition 2K14 until now.  Mind you, I ain’t complaining because his tribal anthem of Michael’s classic is EPIC!  Besides, this wouldn’t exactly be a “Halloween” set if it didn’t contain at least one reference to the holiday (without all the stupid spooky filler crap most DJs sneak into their sets).  Then again, Halloween always affords me the creativity to make cover art with a hot zombie or guy covering up his junk with a pumpkin LOL.
Cast all that aside and what you have is one MONSTER of a set with the biggest tribal anthems of the moment.  In short, no tricks …just treats.
It’s Friday night and I’ve got other business to attend to, so I’m gonna keep this short.  Hope everyone gets out and has a frighteningly fun-filled weekend.  Do everything I would do and then some! ENJOY!
Album : Halloween Edition 2k14
Genre : Circuit, Progressive, House, Tribal House
Year : 2014
Total Time : 01:26:28
1. Tatiana K - Welcome To My World (DJ Laszlo Club Remix)
2. Taylor Swift - Shake It Off (Ranny's Sunset Mix)
3. Kylie Minogue & Enrique Iglesias - Beautiful (Toy Armada & DJ GRIND Club Mix)
4. Tony Moran & Joe Gauthreaux feat. Michelle Weeks - Let's Find a Place (Club Mix)
5. Beyonce - Haunted (Jackinsky Private Mix)
6. Twisted Dee & Spyglass Edmund feat. Amuka - Destination (We Are the Ones) (Tony Moran & Deep Influence Mix)
7. Katy Perry - This Is How We Do (Chris Cox Club Mix)
8. Groove Thing feat. Debbie Harry - Command & Obey (The Barry Harris Remix)
9. Allan Natal feat. Soraya Naoyin - Perfect Universe (Original Mix)
10. Tony Moran - Take It All The Way (Mauro Mozart Remix)
11. Yoko Ono - Angel (Mike Cruz Club Mix)
12. Aristofreeks feat. Kathy Sledge - Keep it Movin (John Rizzo Main Mix)
13. Michael Jackson - Thriller (Barry Harris 2K15 Big Tribal Anthem Remix)
14. Jennifer Lopez feat. Iggy Azalea - Booty (Barry Harris & Division 4 Remix)
15. Tommy Love feat. Wanessa - Beast (Aurel Devil Sao Paulo Remix)
16. Jesse J with Ariana Grande & Nicki Minaj - Bang Bang (Barry Harris Big Tribal Party Anthem Remix)
17. Soul Central feat. Kathy Brown - Strings Of Life [Stronger On My Own] (Gustavo Jr. & DJ Andy Vocal Mix)
18. Offer Nissim - Everybody Needs A Man (DJ Aaron Edit)
19. Ralphi Rosario & HiFi Sean - Sex Machine (Ralphi & Hifi Main Version)
20. Amy Grant - You're Not Alone (Guy Scheiman Club Mix)
21. Georgie Porgie - Keep On Lovin You (Georgie's House Club)
22. Aretha Franklin - Rolling In The Deep (Wideboys Club Remix)

HW2k14

Got a lot going on today but I promised a post even if the site isn’t ready yet, so here it is.  This one’s free until it isn’t.  I’ll put together a cue file for it later this week.
Have a great weekend everyone!
Album : HW-2KXIV
Genre : EDM, Progressive, House
Year : 2014
Total Time : 01:26:28
1. Pitbull feat. John Ryan - Fireball (Deficio Remix)
2. Michael Jackson - Thriller (ReepR Remix)
3. Paris & Simo - Zombie (3LAU TomorrowWorld Edit)
4. Bebe Rexha - I Can't Stop Drinking About You (The Chainsmokers Extended Mix)
5. Oliver Heldens feat. KStewart - Last All Night (Extended)
6. Calvin Harris feat. John Newman - Blame (Bassanova Remix)
7. David Guetta feat. Sam Martin - Dangerous (David Guetta Banging Vocal Mix)
8. Ariana Grande - Break Free (Noodles Extended)
9. Dirty South feat. Sam Martin - Unbreakable (SNBRN Remix)
10. Alesso feat. Tove Lo - Heroes (Chris Davies Remix)
11. Lana Del Rey - Ultraviolence (Hook N Sling Remix)
12. Nicky Romero & Anouk - Feet On The Ground (Merk & Kremont Remix)
13. Naughty Boy feat. Romans - Home (Kat Krazy Extended Mix)
14. Aiden Jude - Words (Mike Rizzo Funk Generation Club Mix)
15. Katy Perry - This Is How We Do (Steven Redant Vocal Mix)
16. Jennifer Lopez feat. Iggy Azalea - Booty (Funk3d Iggy Club Mix)
17. Sigma feat. Paloma Faith - Changing (Zoo Station Club Edit)
18. OneRepublic - I Lived (Arty Remix)
19. Nicky Romero & Vicetone - Let Me Feel (Simon & Phil Intro Edit)

Fall Edition 2K14

Welcome to the annual 2K14 Fall Edition!  I’m talking about bodies movin, non-stop groovin, asses shakin, floors are breakin, queens are freakin, ho's are creepin, divas flowing, and did I mention HOT COWBOYS? LOL
You’ll notice a familiar trend throughout this set as there is one common denominator holding this shit together …Mr. Barry Harris or Mr. Harris is one half of the AWESOME Thunderpuss team, but only if you’re nasty.  Lately, gurrrlfriend has been on FIRE!  Just make sure to keep him out of the ice-bucket challenge; we don’t wanna cool down his streak.
Barry takes on the Zedd produced track “Break Free” by Ariana Grande and pumps in some classic Thunderpuss beats while keeping it fresh with an updated sound for today’s floors.  Watch out for the amazing piano breakdown; you’ll think he mashed it up with some early Mariah but it’s pure Ariana.  Equally, he attacked the classic “Stranger in My House” by Tamia and updated the original Thunderpuss mix from back in the day with fresh new beats and another delicious piano breakdown 2/3 of the way in.
Barry also pumps up the deep house hit “Hideaway” by Canadian newcomer Keisza.  Using Antoine Clamaran’s classic “Dr. Drum” as inspiration, he pulls us in slowly until all hell breaks loose towards the end.  Listening to the original, I would have never thought to match the two songs up but shit if it doesn’t work!
Joe Gauthreaux is currently riding high with his tweaky “Bye Felicia.”  The whole package comes with a bucket full of stealthy remixes for the floor, but the one that caught my attention the most was by Wayne G.  Listen close folks, there’s a solid mashup with Kim English’s “Unspeakable Joy” or even Madonna’s “Beautiful Stranger” in there just begging to happen.  I’m just sayin.
As I write this, Party Favorz girlfriend Erika Jayne is sitting on top of the Billboard Club Play charts with her latest “PAINKILLR.”  While it took me a while to get into this song, after a few spins I’ve been all over it.  Mike Cruz channels his inner Danny Verde and spins the song into a dark, tribal progressive monster that just sucks you in and squeezes tight.
As usual, I like to try to close these sets out on a sunny note.  While I realize I’ve been beating this dead horse since early Summer, I was waiting for the final mixes to drop for this 80s classic.  Specifically, I was waiting for 7th Heaven’s version, which did not disappoint.  Kon Kan (an early project of …you guessed it, Barry Harris) had a major hit with “I Beg Your Pardon.”  The song hooks itself around a big synthesized loop, which 7H stayed true to while sampling the early 70s country classic “Rose Garden” by Lynn Anderson.  The only thing these guys left out was the GQ “rock-freak” drop in the middle of the song; likely for licensing reasons.  No problem, your humble host put it back in for ya making this a truly remarkable update for those who fondly remember the original.  And, if you don’t, get into it.
This is going to be it for September so I can start working on the new premium content version of this site.  I’ve already hit a few stumbling blocks, but I’m fairly certain I’ll figure it out.  I’m also about to start taking some coding courses to get myself up to speed in CSS and Java.  Who knows, maybe I’ll make an app ya’ll buy one day and retire off of that LOL.  Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend.  I should be back around the beginning of October.  Until then …ENJOY!
Album : Fall Edition 2K14
Genre : Circuit, Tribal, House, Progressive
Year : 2014
Total Time : 01:41:35
1. Annie Baltic - Low Key (Toy Armada, DJ Grind Club Mix)
2. Ariana Grande - Break Free (The Barry Harris Tribal House Big Anthem)
3. Fantine - Reservation For Two (DJ Laszlo Club Remix)
4. Jennifer Lopez - First Love (Dena Cucci Club Remix)
5. Bonnie Tyler - Total Eclipse Of The Heart 2K14 (M Torrez & Junior Senna Private Mix)
6. Mary Lambert feat. B.o.B - Secrets (Danny Verde Remix)
7.

Millennial House Music Classics Volume 3: Release Your Mind

When it comes to Millennial House Music Classics, it’s essential to delve into the transformative tracks that not only ruled the dance floors but also signaled shifts in the genre. Take for instance Agnes’s “Release Me,” a pulsating anthem that propelled the reputation of the dance production team Cahill while heralding a fresh era for house music.
There’s an interesting tale behind how I acquired the first three tracks on this volume. Rewind to 2006, where Tower Records on Piedmont Avenue in Atlanta was the go-to hub for house music aficionados like me. Amidst a landscape that was morphing at warp speed—thanks to file-sharing platforms like Napster and WinMX—that brick-and-mortar store was the relic of a bygone era. The mail-order dance labels like LA’s Perfect Beat and eBay's bootleg promos were the alternative channels, but nothing beat the physicality of holding that CD in your hands.
Fast-forward to today, and it’s not just the music but the medium itself that has changed dramatically. Steve Jobs redefined how we consumed music with the introduction of iTunes and the iPod. Online platforms like Beatport, Traxsource, and JunoDownload capitalized on this shift, evolving into formidable businesses catering to a dedicated niche of house music lovers.
The influence of UK-based labels like Ministry of Sound and Hed Kandi cannot be underestimated in the Millennial House Music Classics scene. But times have changed; US-based Ultra Records and Spinnin' Records have stepped in to fill the void, stretching its influence into mainstream genres. The growth of Electronic Dance Music (EDM) in recent years, often seen as the heir to house music, has reshaped the industry landscape even more.
Don't be fooled into thinking that Millennial House Music was all produced in high-end studios. The democratization of music-making, facilitated by advancements in technology, means that aspiring artists can now generate professional-level tracks from the comfort of their bedrooms. With smartphones now more powerful than the original iPod, our music libraries have become as mobile as we are, available for streaming anytime, anywhere.
So, let’s release our minds and dive into the tracks. From Soul Avengerz and Angie Brown's "Sing" to Grant Nelson's remix of Negrocan's feel-good "Cada Vez," each tune encapsulates a moment in the Millennial House saga. Blaze's "Most Precious Love 2006," featuring Barbara Tucker and remixed by Freemasons, is a shimmering epitome of vocal house. Then there's "MyMyMy" by Armand Van Helden feat. Tara McDonald, remixed by Stonebridge—a track that encapsulates the fusion of electronic elements and soulful vocals. Lastly, "Shackles (Praise You)" by Mary Mary, remixed by Maurice, resonates as a crossover hit that blends gospel, house, and pure infectious energy.
I’d like to tip my hat to pioneers like Steve Jobs and even Napster for taking off the shackles. It's time to explore these Millennial House Music Classics that have been both evolutionary and revolutionary.
Until the next time...ENJOY!
Donate and keep the party going!
Album : Release Your Mind | Millennial House Classics v3
Genre : House
Year : 2014
Total Time : 01:17:13
1. Soul Avengerz feat. Angie Brown - Sing (Club Mix)
2. Blaze pres. Barbara Tucker - Most Precious Love 2006 (Freemasons Proper Club Mix)
3. Soulshaker feat. Lorraine Brown - Hypnotic Erotic Games (Soulshaker Club Mix)
4. Armand Van Helden feat. Tara McDonald - MyMyMy (Stondebridge Remix)
5. The Shapeshifters - Lola's Theme (Extended Vocal Mix)
6. Agnes - Release Me (Cahill Club Edit)
7. Gusto - Disco's Revenge (Freemasons Vocal Mix)
8. Syke 'N' Sugarstarr - Release Your Mind 2008 (Richard Earnshaw Remix)
9. Craft B. feat. Nica Brooke - Summer Voyage [Cover Me] (DJ Rudd Full Vocal Edit)
10. Soul Conspiracy feat. Ja'Quita - Life (Original Mix)
11. Negrocan - Cada Vez (Grant Nelson Vocal Mix)
12.

EDM Sessions | 9-2KXIV

Happy Friday!  Thought I’d throw everyone for a loop and sneak this one out on ya [grin].  Previously, I had indicated the next EDM set wouldn’t be out until October, but after working on the Summer XO, Mixtape and Millennial House Classics, I decided I needed a new frame of mind with a little more edge.  Okay, a lot more edge LOL.
This latest edition of the EDM Sessions is jammed packed with smoking tunes with a hefty portion coming from bootlegs.  Hailing from Spain, Jad Desenchannetee kicks it off with his Dave Aude mashup of Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off.”  I have never been a fan of Miss Swift but her latest single (coupled with the self-deprecating video) is a bouncy throwback to the 60s and frankly just a lot of fun.  With no official remixes for her hit, Jad’s mashup hits all the right notes and frankly, you don’t really need any more than this.  His intuitions are so good, I also picked up his mashup of Meghan Trainor's mega-catchy hit “All About the Bass.”
Speaking about the bass, what the hell is going on with all these songs about plump juicy peaches? You got Nicki’s x-rated hit “Anaconda,” which heavily samples the 90s hit “Baby Got Back,” J-Lo and Iggy have a duet out along those lines and even our girl Erika Jayne who is back with her next number one PAINKILLER, though that song has nothing to do about the bass, but her cover art for the single sure does LOL.  I never even realized Erika had so much going on but honey BRING IT!
Disclosure’s “Latch” featuring Sam Smith has been a massive hit but never serviced any proper mixes (likely because it’s perfect all by itself).  That didn’t stop a multitude of DJs from trying their best to remix it.  Sadly, all but two were an epic fail.  Early out of the winner’s gate is Norman Doray and his massive electro-house interpretation but the hands-down winner goes to the Lost Kings who manage to really hit the sweet spot.  If you haven’t heard their version yet, head on over to their SoundCloud page and check it out, it’s a real treat.
Following up on his massive “Summer” hit, Calvin Harris honors us with another shining electro-pop gem and in true fashion only gives us a radio edit and no remixes (though they usually drop a month or so later).  Several folks have already attempted their own take and I was about to give up on it until DJ Tombs’ remix made it across my desk.  Holy SHIT is this remix good!  I gotta tell ya, out of all the crap covers you hear from bootlegs there will always be someone who treats a song with TLC and just nails it!  Just to be clear, I ain’t ragging on all you folks giving it your best; keep at it and you will get better.  Hell, just ask Drew G, cause his Dirty Pop Deconstruction of Ariana Grande’s “Break Free” gives Zedd a run for his money.
After last year’s global phenom as a featured vocalist on Macklemore’s “Same Love,” Mary Lambert drops a little confessional gem on us with “Secrets.”  The song embraces life’s imperfections and puts it out there for the whole world.  She’s got bipolar disorder, her family is dysfunctional and all I can say is, welcome to the fucking club sweetie LOL.  The fact that she can wrap this all up in a tidy little bounce and Jump Smokers really punctuate the elation in their remix makes the song even more fun and worthwhile.
Finally, Jessie J and friends (Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj) recreate “Lady Marmalade” for the new millennium.  Think Christina Aguilera, Lil Kim, P!nk (without Mya) and “Bang Bang” delivers the goods.  The UK’s Disco Suckz churns out a real banger (pun intended) with his remix, which guarantees a packed floor the minute the DJ drops this in the middle of a set.
That’s all I got for the weekend but it should be more than enough; at least until my next set of releases [grin].  I won’t make any promises as to what or when because I seldom keep them so just make sure you follow Party Favorz through any of the myriad social outlets I’m currently residing on.

00s House Music Classics Volume 2: Turn It Up

When we talk about "classics," we often think of tracks that not only gained widespread popularity but also stood the test of time. But in the vast realm of early 00s House Music Classics, it's crucial to look beyond just the chart-toppers. We shouldn't overlook tracks that might not have conquered the Billboard Dance chart but resonated deeply on local dance floors. After all, history isn't solely written by the victors; it's also penned by those who challenge norms and make lasting contributions, however underground or "fringe" they may be.
Take, for instance, the influential settings of Studio 54 and Paradise Garage during disco's prime. While Studio 54 catered to a mainstream audience, Paradise Garage served up less commercial sounds that were just as vital to the genre's ecosystem. Such lesser-known tracks often inspire the samples in today's music, proving that the line between mainstream and obscure is, at best, a blurry one.
That brings us to the essence of this early 00s House Music Classics collection. It's an amalgamation that celebrates both giants and underdogs—tracks that you've danced to for years alongside tunes you might be hearing for the first time. Tracks like Deep Dish's "Dreams" by Stevie Nicks in the Miami Calling Remix remind us that house music can be as atmospheric as it is danceable. Then there's the iconic "Lady (Hear Me Tonight)" by Modjo, which, in its Extended Mix, encapsulates the fusion of nostalgia and freshness that marked the turn of the millennium.
In this period, up-and-coming talents like Freemasons and Seamus Haji were remixing house with fresh perspectives. Their works, like the Full Intention Club remix of "Love On My Mind" with newcomer Amanda Wilson, or Moby's "I Love To Move In Here" in the Seamus Haji Remix, reflected a generational shift in dance music. These artists were leveraging new technology to draw inspiration from multiple decades—be it '70s disco or '80s new wave—creating a sonic tapestry that was both diverse and cohesive.
The early 2000s were a transformative phase for house music. Advancements in technology democratized the production process, resulting in a creative explosion that blurred the lines between sub-genres. Artists weren't just paying homage to their roots; they were stretching them in exhilarating new directions. This dynamic era, one of technological strides and aesthetic evolution, is where our early 00s House Music Classics series finds its true essence.
So as you groove through this collection, let it be a journey that educates, captivates, and perhaps even sparks your own creative projects. This is more than a setlist; it's an audible snapshot of an era, reflecting the stylistic breadth and depth of a groundbreaking decade in house music.
And remember, we've got more volumes in this series, so stay tuned. For now, TURN IT UP and ENJOY!
Donate and keep the party going!
Album : Turn It Up | Millennial House Classics v2
Genre : House
Year : 2014
Total Time : 01:11:18
1. Deep Dish feat. Stevie Nicks - Dreams (Miami Calling Remix)
2. Freemasons feat. Amanda Wilson - Love On My Mind (Full Intention Club)
3. G Club pres. Banda Sonora - Guitarra G (G Club Original Mix)
4. Modjo - Lady (Hear Me Tonight) (Extended Mix)
5. Jean Jacques Smoothie feat. Tara Busch - 2People (Louis La Roche Remix)
6. Frou Frou - Breathe In (Watkins Vocal Mix)
7. Mark Picchiotti pres. Basstoy feat. Dana Devin - Turn It Up (Kenny Hayes Sunshine Funk Mix)
8. Moby - I Love To Move In Here (Seamus Haji Remix)
9. Joey Negro - Make A Move On Me (Vocal Club Mix)
10. Disco International feat. Miss Lynsey - Ready 4 More (Club Mix)
11. Shakedown - At Night (Original Club Mix)
12. Thelma Houston - I Need Somebody Tonight (Joey Negro Zone Mix)

Autumn 2014 Mixtape Sessions Volume 2

Happy weekend everybody! As promised, I’m sending up the Autumn 2014 Mixtape Sessions Volume 2 for your relaxation and pleasure.  I’m thinking I should have been a little more original and called these Fall Chill, but I was in brain drain mode at the time.
While equally as stimulating as the first, this set definitely pulls back the reigns for a steady stream of soul-satisfying atmospherics.  The slow-moving beats of “Djon Maya Mai” by French duo Synapson kicks the set-off and pretty much sets the mood thereafter.  Each deep house, indie or nu-disco tune smoothly glides in and out of consciousness creating a great escape from reality.
Every song here is a standout but if I had to pick some jewels other than the first song, I’d definitely go with London Grammar‘s beautiful “Strong,”  the indie to nu-disco “Salt” by Junior Sanchez  & Bad Suns and the lilting elegance of “Simple Love” by Julio Bashmore with J Danna on vocals.
Jessie Ware who was in my personal top ten for 2013, has been dropping some new singles and remixes of previous tunes since June.  I’m not sure if these will be included on a new album but they are all so damn good it was hard to decide which one to pick.  Ultimately, I went with the “Two Inch Punch Mix” of If You’re Never Gonna Move just for its sheer beauty and a previous personal connection to the song.  Jessie’s highly anticipated new album Tough Love drops October 6th so be sure to keep your hearts and ears open.
Newcomer Superhand recently released their second single “Crystal Pianos.”  The Anglo-Swedish duo is an experimental team dabbling in musical sounds that draw from rock, electronica, blues, and soul.  At first listen, “Crystal Pianos” sounds like you just stepped onto the Dark Side of the Moon and Rachel Yamagata joined the fun by jamming on her piano.  Clocking in at just under ten minutes, this one song allows Inga Calstrom and Leck Fischer to showcase their influences, which yielded this dark masterpiece.
As usual, I like to mix things up with something a bit unexpected and always try to close these sets out with something upbeat.  The Marlon Hoffstadt remix of Moon Boots’ “Don’t Ask Me Why” flips the original with an uplifting bounce.  I like to call it the “carousel” mix.  One listen and you’ll get it.
Finally, I closed the set with what I will say right here and now is (or should be IMHO) one of the best pop songs of the year but won’t.  The Knock’s “Classic” truly is what its name implies.  This disco-infused pop number is so perfect in every way that once you hear it you won’t be able to shake it.  Now folks, if this had major label support it’d be sitting at number one right now.  If Katy Perry got her claws into it, it would have been number one last year.  But, why bother?  Crista Ru’s (aka Powers) vocals combined with this wickedly addicting production make for perfect late-summer fun.  When she sings “Come to me baby, don’t be shy, don’t be shy” the only response you’ll have is “I’ll be there in a hot second” LOL.  Look for a new album by the Knocks later this fall.
Party Favorz is currently in release mode, so I’m gonna go ahead and start dropping the rest of the releases each day so I can back up and clear my hard drive and start working on some new projects for you folks.  I’ll be back tomorrow with something new for ya.
Until then …ENJOY!
Album : Autumn Mixtape 2
Genre : House, Deep House, NuDisco, Indie
Year : 2014
Total Time : 01:38:55
1. Synapson feat. Victor Deme - Djon Maya Mai (Original Mix)
2. Mike Mago & Dragonette - Outlines (Original Mix)
3. Bruce Leroys feat. Dr. Shinigami - Alive (Dashdot Remix)
4. PANG! - Lion (Original Mix) (Chill Out)
5. Discey - Ashram (Original Mix)
6. Passenger 10 & Lika Morgan - Golden Sky (Sons of Maria Remix)
7. London Grammar - Strong (Claude VonStroke Remix)
8. Artenvielfalt - The World Today (Dan Caster Remix)
9. Junior Sanchez & Bad Suns - Salt (Original Mix)
10.

Autumn Mixtape Sessions 2014 Volume 1

With Labor Day weekend behind us, it’s time to start rolling out some more heat, albeit in a chill kinda fashion.  The Autumn Mixtape is a series of personal picks that are perfect for unwinding or just zoning out.
I’ve got a lot sitting on my hard drive at the moment and will be upping pt. 2 on Saturday followed by some more Millennial House Classics and a new Diva Series.  I’m getting the EDM bug again as some great stuff has finally made it to my ears, so I’ll likely be starting in on that soon.
Remember, due to the nature of the Mixtape Series, there are no cue files that will accompany them.  Hope everyone is gearing up for the weekend.  I’ll be back early Saturday.  Until then ….ENJOY!
Album : Autumn Mixtape 1
Genre : House, Deep House, Indie
Year : 2014
Total Time : 01:30:30
1. Parra for Cuva - True Thoughts (Original Mix)
2. Ryan Mathiesen - Nothing New (Nicone Ratterloopbox Cut)
3. Sunlight feat. The Magician - Years & Years (Extended mix)
4. Buchanan - Coming Down (Extended Mix)
5. Animal Trainer feat. Jan Blomqvist - Keep Control (Niconé & Sascha Braemer Remix)
6. Dirty Vegas - Setting Sun (Nora en Pure Remix)
7. Amber Jolene & Nolan - Everyday & Everynight (KANT Remix)
8. Passenger 10 & Lika Morgan - Golden Sky (Me & My Toothbrush Remix)
9. Emeli Sande - Read All About It (AlexC Remix)
10. Deepjack & Mr. Nu - Don't You Know That (Woo2tech Remix)
11. Syn Cole - Bright Lights (Sam Feldt Remix)
12. Lilly Wood & The Prick - Prayer In C (Robin Schulz Bootleg)
13. Kölsch feat. Gregor Schwellenbach - Cassiopeia (Original)
14. Moby feat. Damien Jurado - Almost Home (Sebastien Remix)
15. Carl Douglas - Kung Fu Fighting (Noiseshaper Remix)