Absolute Pride Volume 1: The Story So Far – A Retro House Gem That Still Slaps
Alright, let’s talk about Absolute Pride Volume 1: The Story So Far. This 1997 Aussie and Kiwi release is a total time capsule of late '90s electronic vibes, blending house beats with Euro-disco flair. Released under Festival Records and Absolute Infinity Music, it’s one of those albums that feels like a party in itself. You know the type—throw it on, and suddenly you’re transported to some neon-lit club where everyone’s wearing shiny pants and dancing like nobody’s watching.
Now, this album has a whopping 23 tracks (yeah, I counted), so obviously, not every song hits the same. But two tracks stood out to me immediately, and honestly, they’ve been stuck in my head ever since.
First up, there’s “I Know Him So Well (96 Remix).” Oh man, this track is such a vibe. It takes the emotional depth of the original and gives it a fresh coat of house paint. The beat builds slowly, pulling you in like, "Come on, stay for just one more dance," and before you know it, you’re fully immersed. There’s something about the way the synths swell—it’s dramatic but still fun, like crying happy tears on the dance floor. If you’ve ever had one of those “this moment feels bigger than life” nights, this remix nails it perfectly.
Then there’s “Physical (Muscle Mary Mix).” How can you not love a pumped-up version of Olivia Newton-John’s classic? This remix leans hard into its house roots, layering chunky basslines with playful vocal chops. It’s cheeky, energetic, and impossible to sit still through. Every time I hear it, I picture a packed club full of people losing their minds because, honestly, who doesn’t wanna shout “Let’s get physical!” at the top of their lungs?
The rest of the album? Solid stuff. Tracks like “Killing Me Softly (Deep South Mix)” and “Xanadu (Millennium Mix)” bring plenty of nostalgia, while others feel a bit dated—which, honestly, adds to the charm. It’s clear Daniel Bowen put effort into the design too; the artwork screams ‘90s pride anthems, all bold colors and unapologetic energy.
Reflecting on Absolute Pride Volume 1, it’s wild how these songs still resonate today. Sure, some parts sound super retro, but isn’t that part of the magic? It’s like revisiting an old friend who tells the best stories, even if they embellish a little. And hey, here’s a random thought: if someone remixed this entire album in 2023, would it blow up again? Maybe. Or maybe we’d all be too busy laughing at the Aqua Mix of “I Like It Hard” to care.
Either way, props to whoever curated this beast. It’s a snapshot of queer joy, pulsing beats, and pure escapism—a reminder that sometimes, all you need is a killer remix and a reason to dance.
Artist:Various Album: Absolute Pride Volume 1 The Story So Far
Did you know? The 1997 album *Absolute Pride Volume 1: The Story So Far* is a hidden gem in the electronic music scene. It’s a vibrant mix of House and Euro-Disco, released in Australia and New Zealand by Festival Records and Absolute Infinity Music. What makes it stand out? The album features wild remixes of iconic tracks like "Killing Me Softly" and "Do Wah Diddy Diddy," reimagined with a dancefloor twist. Fun fact: the design was handled by Daniel Bowen, adding a unique visual flair to this quirky collection. It’s like a time capsule of late '90s pride and beats!
