ART OF NOISE FEAT DUANE EDDY - PETER GUNN EXTENDED VERSION 12" MAXI-SINGLE VINYL

- Grammy Award-winning cover of the Peter Gunn theme, recorded with twangy guitar legend Duane Eddy,

In 1986, the British avant-garde synth-pop group Art of Noise, known for their innovative sampling and experimental soundscapes, embarked on a unique collaboration that would become one of their most iconic tracks. They joined forces with the legendary guitarist Duane Eddy, famed for his signature "twangy" sound, to reimagine the classic TV theme song "Peter Gunn," originally composed by Henry Mancini.

The resulting track, titled "Peter Gunn (Extended Version)," was released as a 12" maxi-single vinyl and quickly garnered attention for its audacious fusion of genres and unconventional production techniques. This daring experiment pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in popular music at the time.

The historical context of this release is crucial to understanding its impact. In the mid-1980s, the music industry was undergoing a significant shift, with electronic instruments and sampling technology becoming increasingly accessible and affordable. Art of Noise was at the forefront of this movement, embracing these tools to create a distinct sonic identity that challenged traditional notions of musical composition.

The studio sessions for "Peter Gunn (Extended Version)" were a testament to the group's experimental approach. The band members, Anne Dudley (keyboards, vocals), J. J. Jeczalik (keyboards, sampling), Gary Langan (production, engineering), and Paul Morley (lyrics, concepts), worked alongside Duane Eddy, whose distinctive guitar riffs added a layer of rock and roll swagger to the track.

The track opens with a sample of a car engine revving, setting a cinematic tone that evokes the noirish atmosphere of the original "Peter Gunn" TV series. This sample is then layered with a pulsating electronic beat, creating a driving rhythm that propels the song forward. Eddy's guitar enters the mix, weaving in and out of the electronic soundscape, adding a touch of nostalgia to the otherwise futuristic production.

Controversially, the track's unconventional structure and heavy use of sampling raised eyebrows among some critics, who questioned whether it could be considered "real" music. However, this criticism only served to fuel the group's artistic vision, cementing their reputation as pioneers in the field of electronic music.

Duane Eddy, the iconic guitarist renowned for his signature "twangy" sound, had already achieved a legendary status in the music industry by the time he collaborated with the avant-garde synth-pop group Art of Noise in 1986. However, the collaboration marked a significant resurgence in his career, introducing him to a new generation of music enthusiasts.

Eddy's journey to this unexpected partnership began in the late 1950s and early 1960s when he rose to fame with instrumental hits like "Rebel Rouser" and "Peter Gunn." These tracks, characterized by his distinctive guitar style and innovative use of reverb, established him as a pioneer in rock and roll guitar playing.

However, as the musical landscape evolved in the 1970s and early 1980s, Eddy's popularity waned. He continued to release music but struggled to maintain the same level of commercial success he had enjoyed in his earlier years. This period of relative obscurity would eventually lead to the serendipitous encounter that revitalized his career.

In 1986, Art of Noise, known for their experimental approach to music and innovative use of sampling technology, decided to reimagine the classic "Peter Gunn" theme, originally performed by Eddy. The group, recognizing the iconic status of Eddy's guitar sound, approached him to collaborate on the project.

Eddy, eager to explore new musical avenues and reach a wider audience, embraced the opportunity. The resulting track, "Peter Gunn (Extended Version)," was a fusion of Eddy's signature guitar riffs with Art of Noise's cutting-edge electronic soundscapes. This unexpected pairing of rock and roll nostalgia with futuristic production techniques proved to be a winning formula.

The song's success propelled Eddy back into the spotlight, introducing him to a new generation of fans who had grown up listening to Art of Noise's innovative sounds. The collaboration also opened doors for Eddy to explore new musical territories, leading to further collaborations and a renewed appreciation for his unique guitar style.

The partnership between Duane Eddy and Art of Noise was a testament to the power of musical experimentation and the willingness to break down genre barriers. It also served as a reminder that even established artists can find new avenues for creative expression and reach new audiences by embracing unexpected collaborations.