Disco? Yes, please.

 

The biggest news of the week is the return of Dancing with the Stars. I am not a fan of reality or game shows, but I have to admit that I watched the first episode to catch Snowboarder Louie Vito attempting the Foxtrot. From America’s Best Dance Crew to So You Think You Can Dance, dance shows are stealing viewers from dramas and sitcoms, but television is not the only medium focused on dance right now.  Music is also taking a turn towards the dance arena. Some of my favorite new tracks this year are in the style of disco. From mainstreamer Pink to alt rockers Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Gossip, it seems everyone is in the mood to dance. All this dance makes me wonder if we’re in a second wave of disco? All signs boldly point to yes. Although the electronica genre has been holding it down since the 90s, this is the most popular dance has been since John Travolta and the Bee Gees. It had to happen sometime. Disco was era that burned out way too quickly for it not to reappear in the future. I’ve noticed that the stigma surrounding disco is changing too. Back in the 80s and 90s disco was too horrible to mention and not considered real music when compared rock or new wave. Today, people talk about disco nostalgically. So, get out those old Solid Gold and Soul Train BETAs and start practicing your moves. Disco is back. Isn’t this the way it should be anyways? Shouldn’t dance and music bring people together and make them happy? I know as a dancer, it’s great to have another genre aside from World that people can dance to and have a good time. No offense Michael Franti.

And now a Band of the Week to dance to…She Wants Revenge!

I have loved this San Fernando Valley duo, Justin Warfield and Adam Bravin, since they emerged in 2006 with their first album She Wants Revenge. Their sophomore album This is Forever was equally impressive, but I am really excited about their new EP Up and Down. The new Ep is a departure from their usually dark dance tracks and sounds inspired by Prince. I love their entire first album, but you must download “Tear You Apart” and “Out of Control,” in addition to “True Romance” from their second album. I am digging “Your Love” from the new EP. You have to see them live too. We saw them at Live 105’s BFD at Shoreline in 2006. I got the worst sunburn ever that day, but I didn’t even care because everyone was dancing and having a great time when She Wants Revenge played. They are currently on tour in the US and, if you can’t catch them this time around, pick up the new EP to dance to at home.

Until next time, dance til you’re dead- K