This is one of those occasions in which the remix is better than the original. Where the original 'Man On Fire', off EDWARD SHARPE & THE MAGNETIC ZEROS' new album Here starts off with a simple acoustic guitar line and some tribal vocal sounds, the remix by LITTLE DAYLIGHT starts off with a strong percussive backbone and harmonised humming.
'Man On Fire' is permeated by hymnal tones, including a backing choir singing angelically throughout. The original even references the Australian indigenous didjeridoo in parts, and has a slow, balladic rhythm – it sounds like a song to sing around a campfire. The remix, on the other hand, sounds like it should be played at a Zulu themed dub-step or drum and bass house party. It goes further than the original, building up progressively to a synth underpinned, haunting organ-fringed belter.
Leaving the lovely backing harmonies and melody intact, LITTLE DAYLIGHT break down 'Man On Fire's parts and reassemble them into an edgier, hookier version worthy of a dancehall (otherwise known as a club). Better still, it's available for download on SoundCloud.
Words by Rebecca McCann.
