In 1986, the Art of Noise and guitarist Duane Eddy collaborated on a 7" vinyl single, reimagining Henry Mancini's classic "Peter Gunn" theme. This rare demo copy, featuring a picture sleeve designed by John Pasche, combines electronic innovation with Eddy's iconic guitar twang. Released during the experimental 1980s, the collaboration bridges musical eras, creating a unique gem that captures the spirit of the time.
In the midst of the eclectic musical landscape of the 1980s, one particular release stood out, showcasing a fusion of iconic talents and a nod to the classic sounds of the past. The 7" vinyl single "Peter Gunn" by Art of Noise featuring Duane Eddy, released in 1986, not only paid homage to the original composer, Henry Mancini, but also encapsulated the innovative spirit of the time.
The track "Peter Gunn" itself is a timeless composition by Henry Mancini, originally composed as the theme for the television series of the same name in the late 1950s. Known for its catchy melody and distinctive arrangement, the piece became an instant classic, earning Mancini widespread acclaim and several awards.
Fast forward to the mid-1980s, and the Art of Noise, a pioneering electronic group, decided to breathe new life into Mancini's masterpiece. What makes this release truly special is the collaboration with the legendary guitarist Duane Eddy, whose twangy guitar style had left an indelible mark on the music of the late 1950s and early 1960s.
The choice of Duane Eddy to accompany Art of Noise on this rendition adds a layer of authenticity and nostalgia. Eddy's signature guitar sound, often referred to as "twang," perfectly complements the electronic and experimental elements brought in by Art of Noise. The synergy between these two musical forces results in a unique and captivating version of "Peter Gunn."
The 7" vinyl format of the single adds a tangible and collectible aspect to the release. In the realm of vinyl enthusiasts, a rare demo copy with a picture sleeve designed by John Pasche holds particular significance. Pasche, known for his iconic design of the Rolling Stones' tongue and lips logo, brings his artistic touch to the visual representation of this musical collaboration.
The year 1986 places this release within the broader context of the mid-1980s music scene. It was a period marked by a willingness to experiment with different genres and styles, fueled by advancements in music production technology. The use of electronic instruments and synthesizers was becoming more prevalent, leading to the emergence of new wave, synth-pop, and other electronic genres.
"Peter Gunn" by Art of Noise featuring Duane Eddy exemplifies this spirit of experimentation. The blend of electronic and traditional elements showcases a willingness to push boundaries and reimagine familiar tunes. It also reflects the trend of artists in the 1980s revisiting and reinterpreting classic works, bridging the gap between different musical eras.
| Music Genre: Rock New Wave |
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| Production:
Peter Gunn was written by Henry Mancini, P/S Picture Sleeve designed by John Pasche |
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| Tracks side 1: Peter Gunn |
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| Tracks side 2: Something Always Happen |
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Record Label Information: China Records VS4 42986 |
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| Media Format 7" Single/EP |
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| Year / Country | 1986 Made in USA |
Art of Noise is an English avant-garde synth-pop and electronic music group formed in 1983 by producer Trevor Horn, engineer Gary Langan and programmer J. J. Jeczalik. The band is considered one of the pioneers of the electropop genre and is known for their innovative and eclectic approach to music-making, incorporating elements of classical, jazz, and avant-garde music into their sound.
One of the defining features of Art of Noise is their use of technology and sound manipulation techniques. The group made use of sampling, looping, and other digital audio processing techniques to create unique and intricate soundscapes. They were also known for their experimentation with different instrumentation and sound sources, incorporating everything from traditional orchestral instruments to found sounds and noises into their music.
Some of the band's most popular songs include "Beat Box," "Moments in Love," and "Close (to the Edit)," all of which are considered electronic music classics. Despite having a relatively short lifespan, Art of Noise's impact on the electronic music genre has been significant, inspiring many subsequent musicians and producers.
In recent years, the band has been recognized for their contributions to music history and have been the subject of numerous retrospectives and reissues of their work. Despite no longer being active, the legacy of Art of Noise lives on through their innovative and influential music.