Win Marcinak featuring Gioia Bruno - Kiss And Tell

This is a cover of the Bryan Ferry song. Win Marcinak (going by just Win right now) is a San Francisco-based artist. He has teamed up with Gioia Bruno, who was formerly a member of the Freestyle trio Exposé. She embarked on a successful solo career some years ago. Win and Gioia turn it into a Dance/Pop track that is accessible enough for radio and the clubs, all with the same version, however, many remixes are planned for the club release. The lineup of remixers who worked on this project is really impressive: Warren Rigg, The Perry Twins, Josh Harris, Dena Cucci, Jake Benson, and Mark Picchiotti. One really cute addition to this is the interpolation of The Adventures Of Stevie V's "Dirty Cash (Money Talks)", resung by Gioia. While only a small part of "Money Talks" is heard, it fits very well. Overall, this is a really great cover.

Listen to the original version of "Kiss & Tell" here (YouTube)

Grade: A

Jipsta - Middle Of The Dancefloor

There have been only a few openly gay rappers that have made a lasting impression. Having been recording for just a little while, Jipsta is finally getting the attention he deserves. His current single "Middle Of The Dancefloor" could very well be the song that gets him properly introduced to the world. The lyrics talk about enjoying a night of clubbing and all that goes with that. Although the concept may be simple, the lyrics are really intelligent and witty. Compared to most rap songs out now, the lyrics actually make sense. No weird gibberish or strange words that require a dictionary to decipher.

This one is ready for the nightclubs with nearly half a dozen remixes. This song translates very well into club mixes. Edson Pride's mix is a hard, tribal stomper. Diva Nation's mix is Euro Hi NRG/Circuit bliss. The synths are spectacular. Mike Cruz and Micky Friedman's dub does not use all of the vocals, however, it has just enough vocals.. Oscar Velazquez's is a bit more minimal. Ranny's mix is very drummy and driving. Dena Cucci's mix has all these ups and downs in it that make it feel like a rollercoaster. It has a classic circuit feel with the beats and the riff that appears throughout.

Overall, the remix package is very solid. A CD single with the mixes can be purchased here.

There is also a special mashup version of this on Jipsta's MySpace that uses the infamous "Calabria" instrumental. It works quite well.

Grade: A