A double-CD set compiling an amazing selection of John Morales’ remixes (most done with late partner Sergio Munzibai), The M & M Mixes is a glorious musical time trip for anyone interested in the underground dance scene of the 70s and early 80s. Consisting of what Morales describes as After-Session mixes, the versions on this compilation are unreleased alternate remixes of some of the countless tracks that he and Munzibai worked their magic on over the course of their career.
Now unfortunately, many of the average disco compilations seek to go no further than those tracks that also made significant inroads to the Top 40, but The M & M Mixes is jam-packed with gloriously swirling smashes like “Happy Love Affair” from First Choice, Ronnie Dyson’s “All Over Your Face,” Logg’s “(You’ve Got) That Something,” and Universal Robot Band’s “Barely Breaking Even” that may not have crossed over to pop radio waves but often showcase a more nuanced and sophisticated sound than some of the their better-known compatriots.
And while you might not recognized Class Action’s “Weekend” by name, you’re still quite likely to be familiar with its “Tonight it’s party time, it’s party time tonight” refrain thanks to the numerous covers and sample tracks based around it while Bumblebee Unlimited’s “Lady Bug (I Just Wanna Be Your Lady Bug)” is so delightfully free-spirited that it frankly seems a crime the song never achieved mainstream success. Jocelyn Brown’s inimitable vocals highlight two Inner Life tracks included, the rousing “(Knock Out) Let’s Go Another Round” and a soaring version of the oft-covered “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” while the burgeoning Electro-Funk scene is well represented here with “No Stoppin’ That Rockin’” from Instant Funk, Tony Adderly’s “I Ain’t Mad At You,” and Skyy’s “Because of You.”
A rare and richly satisfying listening experience, The M & M Mixes is a timeless treat for the ears, the heart, and the feet.
Released December 2009 on BBE Records.