Photo: Bilan/AFP/Getty
U2, “Magnificent” [Fred Falke Remix]
There are several Falke remixes in this post, but this one is our pick hit — it brings this recent U2 song to life, strengthening the melody by laying it atop a whizzing techno backbeat, sounding like something the group might have attempted in their (underrated, we say) Pop era. It becomes a completely different song, one that aches and pulses and soars. Falke’s Lykke Li remix in this same post isn’t bad, either.
Bat For Lashes, “Sleep Alone” [Van Rivers & the Subliminal Kid Remix]
And we thought Bat For Lashes couldn’t get any darker. This Van Rivers remix of Natasha Kahn’s haunting “Sleep Alone” lays her vocal atop a steadily grinding backdrop, making it sound like late-period Tricky — a lone, lonesome voice floating ghostlike from the center of mechanical production.
The Arctic Monkeys, “Crying Lightning” [Live on Jimmy Fallon]
How can you tell Arctic Monkeys have gone dark? Look at Alex Turner’s hair. He looks like Conor Oberst’s body double, that unkempt shaggy black mane hanging down low over his eyes. He’s got the patented indie rock “Brooding Hair.” Happiness is no friend of his.
Fatboy Slim, “Right Here, Right Now” [Trumpdisco Remix]
When was the last time you thought about Fatboy Slim? This Australian remix of his “Right Here, Right Now,” provides ample reason to do so again. It’s delightfully hyperactive, an insistent backbeat pummelling gauzy sheets of synths, eerie and energetic all at once.
Tommy Reilly, “Mr. Brightside” [Killers Cover]
Last week we brought you Scottish folk singer Beerjacket’s tender cover of Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing in the Dark.” This week, it’s Scottish folk singer Tommy Reilly’s tender cover of the Killers’ “Mr. Brightside.” What is it with Scots and anthemic rock? You listening, Frightened Rabbit? We’ll be expecting your cover of “On the Dark Side” for next week.

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- Portions of Album Content Provided by All Music Guide © 2009 All Media Guide, LLC.