Some cases of pro quid quo are better than others: Gerd Janson released Helium Robots’ biggest record to date on his beloved Running Back label earlier this year. In return, Tuff City Kids — his production group with Phillip Lauer — were drafted to remix the second single from the UK duo’s forthcoming debut LP. It’s a sensible combination from an aesthetic angle as well, as all involved have love for the kind of 80s synths that evoke memories and send you on an online shopping spree. TCK’s remix maintains the high standard set by their rework of Massimiliano Pagliara but is decidedly more retro, carried by broad and dusty percussion and led around by a bassy, hard-nosed synth. Yet the real triumph is the interwoven leads trying to find a higher place from which to dive, giving the tune a gradually euphoric build. It’s so well put together it makes you wonder, when can we expect original material from the Tuff City Kids? Our thanks to Helium Robots and Tuff City Kids for making this one available for free. The next drink is on us.

Helium Robots, “Bring Drinking” (Tuff City Kids Remix)

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