Daft Punk - TRON: LegacyReconfigured

Wed 25th May, 2011 in Music Reviews

Ever since the announcement was made that electro-superstars Daft Punk were given the task of producing a soundtrack to Disney’s blockbuster film TRON: Legacy, both Daft Punk fans and sci-fi buffs were over the moon, anticipating what was perceived as a new album from the French techno-maestros. But what many failed to take into account, was that the music was being created for a film and not for Daft Punk’s next studio album, hence why some people were left a little disappointed by the synthesised symphony that was brought forward for the movie.

However, all hope is not lost, as the folks at Disney Music were kind enough to release TRON: Legacy Reconfigured, which contains the majority of the soundtrack remixed by some pretty impressive names, including Moby, The Crystal Method, Boys Noize and Australia’s own Tame Impala, which is an exclusive to the Australian edition of the soundtrack.

Opening up the compilation is the single Derezzed, which has been remixed by Los Angelean trio The Glitch Mob. Their re-invention of the traditionally fast-paced track is really quite outstanding. They choose to retain the general themes of the original track, but slows down the tempo and pack up the bass a few notches to create a powerful and energetic remix, but still respect the core of the predecessor, which is the ultimate aim when re-creating someone else’s work.

Next up on the track list is M83 Vs. Big Black Delta’s interpretation of Fall. What is most impressive about this track is how well they have managed to create a pop single with the inspiration of that original composition. Adding in a layer of vocals to the bass line of Fall and incorporating the descending melody from the original track was pure genius. It has now become a catchy, dance tune, which Daft Punk is sure to be proud of.

Moby’s contribution to The Son of Flynn seemed very minimal to be honest. The only major changes made, was the arrangement of the orchestral harmonies and even then, wasn’t particularly noticeable. The track is still really great to listen to, but the fact that it is intended to be a ‘remix,’ doesn’t seem to be conveyed within this track.

When looking at the list of artists contributing to this compilation, it was most certainly a surprise to see psychedelic stars, Tame Impala giving the remix a try and their work on End of Line was surprisingly awesome to listen to. There are no signifiers to suggest that the work has been done by Tame Impala, especially as their music is neither electronic or dance, but rock. Nevertheless, they hit the nail on the spot for all the conventions of a remix. They convey the original track perfectly, and rearrange it into a brand new experience for the audiences.

This reconfiguration of the TRON: Legacy soundtrack was a perfect accompaniment to the work of Daft Punk and I believe that the fans hoping for a new album from them, will be pleased by the work on this release and will be in for a treat as it includes a far more upbeat and dance atmosphere than the original soundtrack. For those who have to decide between the original and the reconfigured, the recommendations go to this one, purely for its creativity and variety in sound.