Tag: 1985

April 2, 2025

Pet Shop Boys – West End Girls (The Shep Pettibone Mastermix) (Europe 12″) (1985)

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Originally posted February 4, 2013

Few songs encapsulate the sound of the mid-80s like West End Girls by Pet Shop Boys. Originally released in 1984, the song was re-recorded in 1985 with producer Stephen Hague. It became an international hit in 1986, topping charts worldwide. Its mix of moody synth-pop, hip-hop-inspired beats, and Neil Tennant’s signature deadpan delivery created a track that still resonates today. But for remix enthusiasts, one particular version stands out—the Shep Pettibone Mastermix.

Shep Pettibone, a legend in the remix world, was at the height of his powers in the mid-to-late ’80s, working with artists like Madonna, New Order, and Janet Jackson. His take on West End Girls amplifies its dancefloor appeal, giving it a sharper, club-friendly edge while retaining the song’s atmospheric charm. Clocking in at over eight minutes, Pettibone’s remix extends and reshapes the track, introducing new percussive elements, enhanced synth layers, and a driving rhythm that makes the song even more energetic and dynamic.

One of the standout elements of the Shep Pettibone Mastermix is its use of breakdowns and vocal manipulation. Tennant’s vocals are layered and looped, adding depth and drama to the track. The bassline, already a defining feature of the original, is pushed forward, creating a groove that feels tailor-made for dance floors. The result is a remix that not only respects the essence of the song but elevates it into something fresh and dynamic.

It’s important to note that the Shep Pettibone Mastermix that appears on the 12″ single is not the same version that appeared on DISCO: The Remix Album. Additionally, to my knowledge, neither version on the 12″ single has appeared on CD. The B-side A Man Could Get Arrested is also a different version than the one that appears on the Alternative compilation or the Please Further Listening edition.

Though the Shep Pettibone Mastermix wasn’t the most commercially promoted remix of West End Girls, it remains a favorite among DJs and collectors, capturing a moment when remix culture was beginning to redefine pop music. It’s a testament to both Pet Shop Boys’ innovative songwriting and Pettibone’s ability to transform great songs into club classics.

For those who appreciate the extended mix era, this remix is a must-listen—a perfect blend of the Pet Shop Boys’ signature style and Shep Pettibone’s remix mastery. If you haven’t revisited it in a while, now’s the time to put it back on and experience West End Girls in a whole new way.

SIDE A:
West End Girls (The Shep Pettibone Mastermix) 8:13
Producer – Stephen Hague
Remix, Producer [Additional Production] – Shep Pettibone

SIDE B:
West End Dub 9:35
Producer – Stephen Hague
Remix, Producer [Additional Production] – Shep Pettibone

A Man Could Get Arrested 4:21
Producer – Bobby Orlando, The Pet Shop Boys*
Remix – Frank Roszak

VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint

U.S. CHART HISTORY:

Year	Single	Chart	Position
1986	West End Girls	U.S. Billboard Hot 100	#1
1986	West End Girls	U.S. Billboard Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks	#26
1986	West End Girls	U.S. Billboard Hot Dance/Club Play	#1
1986	West End Girls	U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles	#36
1986	West End Girls	U.S. Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks	#37

RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Parlophone – 060-20 0998 6, EMI – 1C K 060 20 0998 6
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 45 RPM, Maxi-Single
Country: Europe
Released: 1985
Genre: Electronic
Style: Electro, Synth-pop

CREDITS:

Written-By – Tennant / Lowe

NOTES:
Tracks A and B1: Mixing and additional production for Mastermix Productions

Printed in Germany
Made in EEC.

Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS

VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
burningtheground.net

THE GEAR:
Turntable: Technics SL-1200MK7
Cartridge/Stylus: Ortofon 2M Black PnP MkII
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

You can help show your support for this blog by donating using PayPal. I appreciate your help.

January 15, 2025

Blancmange – What’s Your Problem? (UK 12″)

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“What’s Your Problem?” is a song by the English synth-pop duo Blancmange, released on 27 August 1985 as the lead single from their third studio album Believe You Me. Written by Neil Arthur and Stephen Luscombe and produced by Stewart Levine, the song captures Blancmange’s signature blend of synth-driven melodies and witty lyrics.

Upon its release, “What’s Your Problem?” achieved moderate chart success, peaking at No. 40 in the UK Singles Chart and climbing to No. 30 in Ireland. A music video accompanied the single, gaining heavy rotation on the European music TV channel Music Box, further solidifying its presence during the mid-’80s synth-pop wave.

The 12″ Single Details:

One of the highlights of the 12″ release of “What’s Your Problem?” is its extended mix, offering fans a longer and more immersive version of the track. Interestingly, this extended mix is not explicitly mentioned on the sleeve or label, making it a subtle yet noteworthy feature for collectors and fans alike.

“What’s Your Problem?” is an extended mix but this is not mentioned on the release.

“Side Two” is an extended version of “22339” from the “Believe You Me” album.

“Living On The Ceiling” is the original 12″ version.

The inclusion of “Living On The Ceiling” on this 12″ single adds an extra layer of appeal, giving listeners a chance to enjoy one of Blancmange’s most beloved tracks in its original extended form.

Legacy

“What’s Your Problem?” may not have achieved the same level of success as some of Blancmange’s earlier hits, but it remains a memorable piece of their discography. The track showcases the duo’s knack for crafting catchy synth-pop tunes while exploring themes with a touch of humor and irony. For fans of ’80s synth-pop, the 12″ release of “What’s Your Problem?” is a must-have, thanks to its unique extended versions and its nod to the band’s earlier success with “Living On The Ceiling.”

SIDE A:
What’s Your Problem? 6:58
Producer –Stewart Levine

SIDE B:
Side Two 7:35
Producer –John Owen Williams*, Neil Arthur

Living On The Ceiling 5:37
Producer – Mike Howlett
Remix – Dennis Weinrich, John Owen Williams

VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint

RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: London Records – BLANX 9, London Records – 882 073-1
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 45 RPM, Single, Stereo
Country: UK
Released: Aug 1985
Genre: Electronic
Style: Synth-pop

CREDITS:

Artwork [Sleeve Conjured Up At] – Assorted Images
Written-By – Arthur*, Luscombe*

NOTES:
‘Living On The Ceiling’ not mentioned on back cover.

Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS

VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
burningtheground.net

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

You can help show your support for this blog by donating using PayPal. I appreciate your help.

November 25, 2024

Band Aid – Do They Know It’s Christmas? (UK 12″)

Burning The Ground Exclusive 1985

Today marks the 40th anniversary of the recording of Band-Aid’s iconic charity single, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”.

Written in 1984 by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, the song was created to raise funds for the 1983–1985 Ethiopian famine relief efforts. Recorded in just one day at Sarm West Studios in Notting Hill, London, on November 25, 1984, the session brought together a supergroup of prominent British and Irish musicians assembled by Geldof and Ure.

Released in the UK on December 7, 1984, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” made an immediate impact, debuting at number one on the UK singles chart and holding the top spot for five weeks. It became the fastest-selling single in UK history at the time, moving one million copies in its first week. By the end of 1984, it had sold over three million copies in the UK and topped the charts in 13 other countries. In the United States, despite limited radio play, the song sold approximately 2.5 million copies by 1985. Globally, it reached 11.7 million in sales by 1989, and its UK sales alone stood at 3.8 million by 2017.

The single raised £8 million within its first year, far surpassing Geldof’s initial expectations. Due to its success, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”was reissued on November 29, 1985, featuring an updated B-side titled *”One Year On (Feed the World).” This version included a spoken message from Geldof and Midge Ure and highlighted the tangible impact of the funds raised, listing the resources and aid provided. Notably, this updated version was only ever released on vinyl.

“Do They Know It’s Christmas?” remains a testament to the power of music to inspire change and unite people for a common cause.

+De-notes vinyl-only

SIDE A:
Do They Know It’s Christmas? (12″ Mix) 6:17
Producer – Midge Ure, Trevor Horn
Remix – Trevor Horn

SIDE B:
One Year On (Feed The World)+ 4:34
Mastered By – BilBo (3)
Producer, Mixed By – Alvin Jeff Clark*, Midge Ure

VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint

U.S. CHART HISTORY:

Year	Single	Chart	Position
1984	Do They Know It’s Christmas?	U.S. Billboard Hot 100	#13
1984	Do They Know It’s Christmas?	U.S. Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks	#32

RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Phonogram – FEED 112, Mercury – FEED 112
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 45 RPM, Reissue
Country: UK
Released: Nov 29, 1985
Genre: Electronic, Pop
Style: Synth-pop, Holiday

CREDITS:

Written-By – Geldof*, Ure*

NOTES:
Many thanks to all the Record Companies of the artists involved.

It’s one year on since BAND AID first began to raise funds for famine relief.
With your help people have survived, now help BAND AID to help them stay alive.
If you would like to make a further donation-send it to:
Band Aid Trust
c/o Stoy Hayward
8 Baker Street
London W1M 1DA

Many thanks to all the people, too numerous to mention, who kindly donated their time and effort in the making this record.

Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS

VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
burningtheground.net

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

You can help show your support for this blog by donating using PayPal. I appreciate your help.

November 7, 2024

Howard Jones – Things Can Only Get Better (US 12″)

Burning The Ground Exclusive 1985

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Original post date: January 20, 2013

“Things Can Only Get Better” by Howard Jones is an iconic track that captures the upbeat, positive energy of the mid-80s synthpop era. Released in 1985 as the lead single from his second studio album, Dream Into Action, the song was an immediate hit, reaching #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and #6 in the UK charts. Known for its infectious optimism, “Things Can Only Get Better” became an anthem of resilience and hope, qualities that resonated with fans worldwide.

The track showcases Jones’ skillful blend of synthesizers, upbeat rhythms, and introspective lyrics. Musically, it features a prominent bassline, funky guitar riffs, and a brass section that adds an extra layer of excitement to the track. The song’s melody is uplifting, with Jones’ dynamic vocals driving home the theme of perseverance. His lyrics focus on pushing through life’s challenges and remaining hopeful, with the refrain “Things can only get better” embodying the core message of positivity.

Jones, who had already made waves with hits like “New Song” and “What Is Love?”, continued to solidify his place in the 80s music scene with this release. Not only did Dream Into Action go on to become a commercial success, but the single also helped define his image as a thoughtful pop artist. Jones’s brand of synthpop was different in that he combined the new wave, electronic feel with introspective, almost philosophical lyrics—an approach that set him apart in a decade where flashy beats often took center stage.

“Things Can Only Get Better” has been widely regarded as a classic 80s anthem, even appearing in films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. Its infectious optimism still resonates today, and its message of hope continues to be a source of inspiration for listeners across generations.

SIDE A:
Things Can Only Get Better (LP Version) 4:05
What Is Love? (New Extended Version) 6:34
Lyrics By – Howard Jones, William Bryant (3)
Music By – Howard Jones

SIDE B:
Things Can Only Get Better (Extended Version) 7:26
New Song (New Version) 4:53

VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint

U.S. CHART HISTORY:

Year	Single	Chart	Position
1985	Things Can Only Get Better	U.S. Billboard Hot 100	#5
1985	Things Can Only Get Better	U.S. Billboard Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks	#28
1985	Things Can Only Get Better	U.S. Billboard Hot Dance/Club Play	#10
1985	Things Can Only Get Better	U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles	#54
1985	Things Can Only Get Better	U.S. Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks	#21

RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Elektra ‎– 0-66915
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM, Stereo, Yellow Sleeve
Country: US
Released: 1985
Genre: Electronic
Style: Synth-pop

CREDITS:

Producer – Rupert Hine
Recorded By, Mixed By – Stephen W. Tayler
Written-By – Howard Jones (tracks: A1, B1, B2)

NOTES:
Produced for Gestalt.
Mastered at Sterling.

Picture sleeve available in 3 other colors pink, white, and orange.

Printed in U.S.A.

Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS

VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
burningtheground.net

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

You can help show your support for this blog by donating using PayPal. I appreciate your help.