Review Summary: Bringing back the Noize
The unexpected collaboration between Nine Inch Nails and Boys Noize has proven to be one of the more fruitful and invigorating team-ups in recent years. They first linked up working on the Challengers (2024) film soundtrack, with Boys Noize remixing the original tracks Reznor and Ross had written for the movie. Next, Boys Noize was direct support for every Nine Inch Nails set during their Peel It Back tour, opening for them and joining Reznor/Ross on stage during a segment of NIN’s set featuring a handful of remixed/clubbified versions of classic NIN songs.
The pinnacle of this partnership has culminated in the two “Nine Inch Noize” Coachella performances (full sets composed exclusively of the best remixes) and the much-anticipated official release of the majority of these new versions.
What makes this album so satisfying is the fusion of NIN’s melodies and layering with the dynamics, creativity, and massive production of Boys Noize.
Some of the tracks are Frankenstein monster mashup renditions of the two camp’s respective original songs. “She’s Gone Away" has the instrumentals of “Girl Crush” by BN combined with Reznor’s original lyrics but adds a calming, ethereal segment before returning to the clubbing beat. Conversely, “Parasite” is structured around the Reznor/Ross original and strengthened by synth garnishes and textures coming from BN “Xpress Yourself”. This new interpretation has an overwhelming, sinister breakdown that elevates it to the next level.
Heresy contains one of the most startling, monstrous drops you will ever hear followed by an onslaught of layered, lush electronics piercing the listener. Closer somehow manages to get filthier and catchier with its precise but unpredictable glitches and the beautiful, intimate bridge going into the breakdown. Both of these versions are effortlessly enthralling and clear highlights on the album.
Deeper cuts like The Warning and Memorabilia get stripped down and sped up to great results, brimming with overpowered bass and relentless, frenzied synths.
While there are a couple of weaker points on the record, they did not significantly drag down my overall enjoyment of the album. Copy Of A fails to hit the peaks that the original did and I could go without having As Alive As You Need Me To Be included on this release when it sits well on the TRON soundtrack where it originates, but both fit the atmosphere and vitality coursing through the release.
Any artist trying to do something this innovative and ambitious after 35 years and such a large body of work should be recognized. The symbiosis demonstrated here between NIN and Boys Noize should enlarge one’s appreciation of each of their particular capabilities. If nothing else, it is an addicting, replayable compilation perfect for working out or putting on to get your energy soaring.
Favorite Songs: Heresy / Parasite / Closer / The Warning / Memorabilia / Came Back Haunted
