22 Jul “I Remember”
When Ultra hit me up with the idea of putting out a “Best Of/Greatest Hits” compilation, I laughed. I feel like I am JUST NOW hitting my stride as a songwriter and producer. In 2005 I had a similar reaction when Om Records prepared to do the same with the compilation “Here & Now”. I understand that this is what labels do: create compilations to recycle and re-purpose material they own. Salvage and re-salvage, it’s so very eco, very green, very now. But I’m still not quite ready to say this is it. This the the Best and Greatest.
To help wrap my head around the concept, I looked at the idea as more of a snapshot of transitions made by me as an artist over the past five albums. There are so many stories in each of these songs, so many memories. And suddenly the title, “I Remember” made sense, and the collection as a starting point for people who have just discovered me seemed cool. It’s a story. I can dig that.
Every song on “I Remember” is a piece of work I’m extremely proud of. It’s not a “Best Of”, but it is a good initiation into my world. I even dare to dream that if someone discovers this album and enjoys it, they’ll dig deeper into my catalog, and find some of the quieter moments that aren’t as obvious. Tracks that make those albums, and me as an artist – truly unique.
Go deeper. There’s more to be heard.
Now, for all who cannot be bothered to read words in paragraph form (I’m not judging, I’m one of you), here’s the quick and dirty FAQ:
Q: Uh, I think I’ve heard all these songs before.
A: YES, “I Remember” is a compilation of singles I’ve released over the past six years. These songs are sort of the touchstones from each album that I’ve put out with Ultra.
Q: So why a “Greatest Hits” thing now? Are you done making music?
A: Shut yo’ mouth! Never!! This is what labels do when their artists either die or leave the label. Ultra has cultivated a collection of fan-favorites and put them together on this release.
Q: Ok, I’d like to get some of this. It’s quite lovely to have some of my favorite tracks by you in one neat and tidy package. How and when can I get my hands on it?
A: Digital download is available July 22, 2014 on iTunes. Pre-orders of CD’s available on Amazon now, here.
Q: Why didn’t you put “(insert name of track not included)”
A: Ah, the arduous process of choosing your favorite children is both chilling and cruel. What it came down to was what songs were actually most popular with the fans. These may or may not reflect my own favorites. I agree with you that “(insert name of track not included)” should have been on it, and I fought like a champ for it. Down with the man!!
Q: But seriously, Ryan. Why pant cuffs with flip flops?
A: It’s either that or get my hair highlighted. You do the math.
Track list for “I Remember” includes:
1. I REMEMBER (STROBELITE MIX)
KASKADE, DEADMAU5
2. ATMOSPHERE
KASKADE
3. ANGEL ON MY SHOULDER
KASKADE, FT. TAMRA KEENAN
4. TURN IT DOWN
KASKADE, FT. REBECCA & FIONA
5. STARS ALIGN
KASKADE
6. EYES
KASKADE,FT. MINDY GLEDHILL
7. MOVE FOR ME
KASKADE, DEADMAU5
8. LESSONS IN LOVE
KASKADE, FT. NEON TREES
9. BE STILL
KASKADE
10. NO ONE KNOWS WHO WE ARE
KASKADE,SWANKY TUNES, FT. LIGHTS
11. DYNASTY
KASKADE, FT. HALEY
12. RAINING
KASKADE, ADAM K. FT. SUNSUN
13. FIRE IN YOUR NEW SHOES
KASKADE, FT. DRAGONETTE
14. LAST CHANCE
KASKADE, PROJECT 46
15. 4AM
KASKADE
16. ROOM FOR HAPPINESS (ICE MIX)
KASKADE, FT. SKYLAR GREY
17. I’LL NEVER DREAM I’M IN LOVE
KASKADE, ALEX GUADINO
18. *SOMETHING SOMETHING CHAMPS (RADIO EDIT)
KASKADE, MOGUAI FEATURING ZIP ZIP THROUGH THE NIGHT
19. *RAGE IN YOUR NEW SHOES
KASKADE, DENIZ KOYU FT. DRAGONETTE
*Tracks only available on digital download