For a true house music classic of 15 years standing, the colossus that is River Ocean and India’s Love & Happiness has been meddled with surprisingly little: the Junior Boys Own (X-Press 2) mix that graced the original and MAW’s own re-rubs are the full extent of it. But finally we’ve unlocked the safe and allowed Michel Cleis and David Penn access to the precious tapes in pursuit of the first release in a grand parade of classic remixes to celebrate Strictly Rhythm’s 20th Anniversary.
Cleis, of course, already has La Mezcla to show his mettle with things Latin and he duly delivers a sparse, percussive mix spiced with flamenco guitar that brings a successfully fresh flavour to India’s vocals. For his part, David Penn produces a more upbeat rub, adding new keys and contemporary beats before working in Tito Puente’s original congas. Respectful, modern and bang on the money in equal measure, Cleis and Penn’s and joined on this release by that Junior Boys Own Dub and the still majestic Original.