Search - Electronic :: Get the Message / Free Will

Part of the early Electronic experience

J. Derek Reardon | KC, MO, USA | 07/31/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

""Get the Message," I believe, was the second single released from Electronic's self-titled debut. As opposed to the PSB-New Order combo-sounding first single, "Getting Away With It," this song has a predominant New Order flair with Bernard Sumner singing and guitar and orchestral work that would sound at home on NO's Technique. While still struggling to find their own sound, Electronic put together a good remix single here that is worth purchasing and enjoying. The release starts off with an Extended Mix of "Get the Message." It's hard to tell differences between this version and the album version. This might be slightly longer, but the additions are logical and fit right in place as if this were the original song. Next we get a bonus, the Extended Mix of "Free Will," a non-album track. This is an interesting orchestral piece. Its sound definitely adjusts through the piece, sounding like NO from Brotherhood, then it has some Pet Shop Boys elements, and during some parts it sounds almost like an 808 State composition. Taking cues from a lot of electronic geniuses, "Free Will" is a very interesting piece of laser-light dance floor fare. I recall that initially I didn't care for the two DNA mixes of "Get the Message" that follow. However, on this most recent listen, I find a new appreciation for them. The DNA Groove Mix starts off with a funky drum/cymbal rhythm (similar to EMF's "Unbelievable") that combines with ethereal/space-age synth work and a groovy rock piano hook. It feels a bit slower than the original, but it takes on a funky attitude that would be fun to groove along with sensually on the dance floor. Taking a cue from the Groove Mix, the DNA Sin Mix keeps a similar groove, but the beats and piano hooks are modified, making this version a tad shallower than the previous versions. This version is a bit more appropriate for a chill-out ambience. I give this single 4 stars, mainly because of the mixes and the bonus track, which is kind of rare for me. The song itself could be argued that its sounds like Electronic, but for a New Order fan for myself, it's hard to separate the two. I'm not saying the song is bad - I love it. But the remixes to me show more signs of what Electronic could really sound like, as does the interesting "Free Will" (even if it does have some fragmented sections). While copying from popular dance artists and themes popular in 1990/1991, Electronic produces a remix single that is a delight to sing with and dance with abandon to. Electronic fans, especially fans of the first album, should definitely have this single. I would also recommend it to any New Order fans who enjoyed Brotherhood, Substance and Technique. I think techno house fans will also appreciate the feel of these mixes; this would make a great retro night anthem. Listening to this single, along with the other singles from this release (and the single remix of the non-album track "Disappointed"), will complete your early Electronic listening experience. If you can find it, definitely buy it."

The best of Electronic!

thomasrayw | Dallas, Texas | 07/24/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Get the Message" is a dance club staple and the best single ever from Electronic, the duo made up of Johnny Marr of The Smiths and Bernard Sumner of New Order. If you're a fan of either of these groups, this is THE Electronic single to have."