This is the Remix

Up until now, we've featured a lot of punk and hardcore music on this blog, so I thought, "Why not break up the monotony a little?" I'm a sucker for a good remix. They're a great way for an artist to express their take on a song without going so far as to cover it, but instead by rearranging or adding to the music. And just like covers, they can be hit or miss. Whether the remix adds bass-heavy trance or electronica beats to a mellow song or tones down a fast song, it has to flow well to be pleasing to the ear. Here are a few favorites that I've come across over the years.

1. "Electric Feel" by MGMT (remixed by Justice)

This song by MGMT is great on its own, but add the bold sounds of French duo Justice and it becomes even better. This is one of those rare cases where I like the remix more than the original song. Everything about it is just perfect, from the intro to the bass line. Justice even won a Grammy for this particular remix in 2009.

2. "mcchrisownz" by mc chris (Paper Planes remix)

Brilliant. The two songs go together so well that it just feels natural. The best part? mc chris has been known to perform this song live, which is a real treat.

3. "Love In This Club" by Usher (remixed by MSTRKRFT)

I know what you're probably thinking, but bear with me. MSTRKRFT, a group that was started by one-half of the now defunct Death From Above 1979, has produced some of the best remixes I've ever heard, plenty of them of songs by mainstream artists. I also highly recommend checking out their remix of "Got Love to Kill" by Juliette and the Licks.

4. "Every You Every Me" by Placebo (remixed by Sneaker Pimps)

Nothing can ever beat the original track. However, this remix adds a bit of a dark twist to a song that's already loaded with emotion.

5. "Alligator" by Tegan and Sara (remixed by Passion Pit)

If you've ever listened to Passion Pit then you know that their music is a unique blend of electronica, indie, and synthpop. Take their signature sound and add it to "Alligator," which is a simple but amazing song on its own, and this is what you get.