Burning The Ground Exclusive
“In And Out” is a standout track by Canadian electronic band Moev, featured on their 1990 album Head Down. The song exemplifies the group’s moody, synth-driven aesthetic, blending darkwave textures with a strong melodic sensibility that set them apart from many contemporaries in the industrial and synth-pop scenes.
A notable element of “In And Out” is the haunting backing vocals provided by a then-rising star, Sarah McLachlan. Her contribution adds an ethereal layer to the track, contrasting the raw, emotionally charged vocals of lead singer Dean Russell.
Dean Russell’s distinctive delivery brought an aching vulnerability to Moev’s sound during the late 1980s and early ’90s. Tragically, Russell passed away in 1994 from complications related to AIDS. His death marked the end of an era for the band, which disbanded shortly afterward.
Head Down, and particularly “In And Out,” remains a powerful snapshot of a band at the height of its creative powers—fusing melancholy lyrics, brooding synths, and poignant performances. The song is both a product of its time and a lasting tribute to Russell’s artistry.
SIDE A:
In And Out (12″ Remix) 6:38
Backing Vocals – Sarah McLachlan
Keyboards [Additional] – Eric Kupper
Mixed By – Bruce Calder
Producer [Additinal For Remix] – Tony Garcia (6)
Producer, Recorded By – John Fryer
Recorded By – Ken Marshall
Recorded By [Assistant] – David Chiasson
In And Out (Dub) 4:31
Backing Vocals – Sarah McLachlan
Keyboards [Additional] – Eric Kupper
Mixed By – Bruce Calder
Producer [Additinal For Remix] – Tony Garcia (6)
Producer, Recorded By – John Fryer
Recorded By – Ken Marshall
Recorded By [Assistant] – David Chiasson
SIDE B:
In And Out (Radio Remix) 4:11
Backing Vocals – Sarah McLachlan
Mixed By – Michael R. Hutchinson*
Producer, Recorded By – John Fryer
Recorded By – Ken Marshall
Recorded By [Assistant] – David Chiasson
Alibis (CBC Live) 4:59
Drums – Ron Thaler
Engineer – David Olgilvie*
Lead Vocals – Cal Stephenson
Producer – Kevin Komoda
VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Naer Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint
RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Rebel Rec. – SPV 055-30933
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM
Country: US
Released: 1990
Genre: Electronic
Style: Synth-pop
CREDITS:
- Artwork By – William Dickson II
- Bass, Drum Programming, Guitar, Keyboards – Kelly Cook
- Drums, Electronics – Ron Thaler
- Keyboards, Programmed By – Tom Ferris
- Layout – John Rummen
- Photography – Van Hai
- Producer – Moev
- Vocals – Dean Russell
NOTES:
Recorded at Mushroom Studios
From the album “HEAD DOWN”
Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS
VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
burningtheground.net
THE GEAR:
Turntable: Technics SL-1200MK7
Cartridge/Stylus: Ortofon Concorde Music Black
Turntable Isolation Platform: ISO-Tone™ Turntable Isolation Platform
Platter: Pro Spin Acrylic Mat
Stabilizer: Pro-Ject Record Puck
Phono Pre-amp: Pro-Jec Tube Box DS2
Tubes: Genalex Gold Lion 12AX7 ECC83/B759 Gold Pins Vacuum Tube – Matched Pair
DAC: Alpha Design Labs GT40a USB DAC
Record Cleaning: VPI HW 16.5 Record Cleaning Machine
Artwork Scans: Epson Workforce WF-7610 Professional Printer/Scanner
SOFTWARE:
Recording/Editing: Adobe Audition 25 (Recording)
Down Sampling/Dither: iZotope RX Advanced 2
Artwork Editor: Adobe Photoshop CS5
Click Removal: Manual
FLAC/MP3 Conversion: dBpoweramp
M3U Playlist: Playlist Creator
RESTORATION NOTES:
All vinyl rips are recorded @ 32bit/float
FLAC (Level Eight)
Artwork scanned at 600dpi
**24bit FLAC Only Available For Seven Days!
Password: burningtheground
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Greetings from Canada! Moev actually had earlier singles when they were on the Network label from their album Dusk and Desire. There’s a 12″ I used to have the had extended mixes of Sea Missile Motel and Took Out the Lace both featuring Michela Arichiello on vocals. She also sadly passed away years ago. Worth checking out to hear Took Out The Lace in particular
What a cool post Paul. I’m not sure I would have heard this back then, as I don’t think there was a video. And I was mostly listening to the melodic rock scene on the radio. But, this is a welcome return to the spotlight and tailor-made for your blog! So interesting about Sarah McLachlan doing backing vocals before her rise up the charts. Another testament to how great the musical landscape was at the time, where a catchy, moody single like this seemingly got lost in the shuffle. Thank you Paul!!
Retro Hound, Thank you so much! I’m really glad you enjoyed the post. You’re right—there wasn’t a video, so it’s easy to see how this one might’ve slipped under the radar, especially with radio being so focused on rock and top 40 at the time. I love uncovering these hidden gems that deserve another listen, and it’s always fascinating to see now-famous names like Sarah McLachlan pop up in unexpected places early in their careers. Totally agree—it was such a rich and diverse musical era, and part of the fun is rediscovering the tracks that somehow got lost along the… Read more »
Thank you for another fantastic 12″ by a criminally underrated band! I have always loved this band and never understood why they weren’t bigger (at least in the underground or dance scenes of the time). And I had no idea Sarah McLachlan provided backing vocals. Now I love this song even more!
You’re so welcome! I couldn’t agree more—such an underrated band with a sound that really should’ve made a bigger impact, especially in the dance and alternative scenes of the time. There’s something timeless about their style. And yes, discovering that Sarah McLachlan did backing vocals was such a cool surprise—it adds another layer of depth to the track and makes it even more special. So glad you’re enjoying it!
I think the most surprising part about Sarah’s backing vocals is that they are so strong and powerful, completely opposite to her vocal style for her solo work. Makes you wonder if she initially opted for a different style.
Also, is it just me, or does their other single, Head Down, have strong INXS vibes?
This is another fantastic discovery. These are my favourite posts. Thank you so much Paul for introducing me to MOEV 🙂
Thank you, Daniel! I’m so glad to hear that—it’s always a pleasure to share these lesser-known gems, especially when they connect with someone. MOEV had something special; it means a lot to know the post resonated with you. Thanks for the kind words and for following along! 😊
WOW I was not expecting this! Love the parent album, in particular this track and the title track! Somehow I didn’t know about Sarah’s vocal contribution or forgot in my old age, but honestly probably didn’t know as this predated my knowledge of who she was ! Another awesome post!
Thank you so much! I’m thrilled this one caught you by surprise—in the best way! The parent album really is a gem, and both this track and the title track are standouts. You’re not alone—Sarah’s contribution definitely flew under the radar for a lot of people, especially before she became a household name. So glad you’re enjoying the post, and thanks as always for the awesome support!
Moev is the best!! Oh goodness, Paul, when I saw this fill up my computer screen, I could’ve just shouted for joy!! I love this group so very much!! They’ve made quite the impression on me and still do every time I listen to their albums!! The Netwerk label was an excellent record company, having the coolest roster of bands, like, Skinny Puppy, Severed Heads, Boxcar, M.C. 900 Foot Jesus, among others! I loved how Sarah McLachlan was signed to their imprint. She lent her vocals for this band and another favorite of mine, Manufacture, a band that deserves praise,… Read more »
Jeff, I’m right there with you. MOEV really is something special, and I love that their music continues to resonate so deeply. Netwerk was such a brilliant label, full of adventurous, boundary-pushing artists, and it’s amazing how connected so many of them were. Sarah McLachlan’s early contributions—both here and with Manufacture—really are a testament to the creative scene they fostered. And yes, Dean Russell’s loss was a tragic one. His voice and presence were unforgettable, and I wholeheartedly agree—we likely would’ve seen even more greatness from MOEV had he lived. I’m so grateful this post brought you joy and stirred… Read more »