Bronski Beat, the ’80s British synthpop band known for openly addressing queer issues, is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a special reissue of their debut album The Age Of Consent. Despite not being active due to the passing of key members, their music continues to resonate. The group’s hit song “Smalltown Boy” recently gained popularity on TikTok, underscoring their lasting impact.
The upcoming reissue will feature remixes of “Smalltown Boy” by Planningtorock and ABSOLUTE. and a fresh interpretation of “Why?” by American house producer Superchumbo. Notably, the remix includes vocals by Neil Tennant, lead singer of Pet Shop Boys, another iconic openly gay synthpop group whose music has also experienced a resurgence on TikTok.
Lead singer of Bronski Beat, Jimmy Somerville, shared his thoughts on the Superchumbo remix:
Reflecting on the significance of the song “Why?,” Somerville praised Tom Stephan (Superchumbo) for his contribution. The lyrics continue to resonate with LGBTQI+ communities, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by individuals expressing their true identities. The addition of Neil Tennant’s vocals brings a contemporary relevance to the track while honoring its legacy, a moment that deeply moved Somerville.
Superchumbo expressed his approach to the remix:
Superchumbo aimed to modernize the track while preserving its original essence and energy. Inspired by the powerful storytelling of Neil Tennant’s lyrics, he seamlessly integrated Tennant’s vocals into the remix, creating a poignant contrast that captures the essence of the song. The collaboration with two influential figures in music was a personal milestone for Superchumbo, who found solace in their artistry during his formative years as a young gay individual.
Listen to Superchumbo’s remix of “Why?” below and revisit the original music video.
The deluxe reissue of The Age Of Consent by Bronski Beat will be available on 10/18 via London Records.
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