Repeated actions can bring feelings of happiness: Hot Chip shares classic behind-the-scenes footage detailing the crafting of one of their most popular songs.
Hot Chip, the British electronic band that has been making music together for two decades, is set to release their Best Of album titled Joy In Repetition on September 5. One of the standout tracks from this collection is the re-imagined version of "Boy From School," originally from their breakthrough album, The Warning.
The transformation of "Boy From School" into a disco anthem began when Joe suggested the idea after recording the Casiotone organ and drum machine version of the song. In behind-the-scenes footage shared by Hot Chip on TikTok, we see Joe working on various aspects of the track's percussive groove, filmed by his father Pete Goddard.
The re-recorded version of "Boy From School" includes a repeating Vox electric piano riff, auto-wahed/phased to bring a distinctive sound. The galloping bassline was provided by the Casiotone MT-70, and a new bridge section was added, featuring the soothing tones of a lap steel guitar, an idea that Joe came up with.
Alexis Taylor, the band's lead vocalist, wrote the basic idea for "Boy From School" in his brother's bedroom. He compared Joe's dedication to making music to that of Brian Wilson, stating that he has a huge dedication to making the most amazing pop music. Taylor also explained that the title Joy In Repetition reflects the joy in doing something again and again, referring to rhythms, grooves, and making records.
The Peter Blake sleeve of Joy In Repetition depicts a monkey with a miniature cymbal, a nod to a line from Over And Over. "Boy From School" was released as the follow-up to Over And Over in May 2006 and even scrapped into the Top 40 at Number 40.
The band has been sharing glimpses of the making of their tracks on social media, such as the behind-the-scenes footage of "Boy From School" on Instagram. In this footage, we see Joe recording vocals and a touch of xylophone in his bedroom studio.
Joy In Repetition promises to be a celebration of Hot Chip's best moments, and "Boy From School" is a testament to the band's ability to transform a track and breathe new life into it. The disco version of "Boy From School" is a perfect example of this, taking the original track and turning it into a dancefloor filler, all while staying true to the band's unique sound.
The re-imagined version of "Boy From School" transforms into a dancefloor filler, blending the band's original sound with a disco-influenced twist, creating an entertainment spectacle. The various aspects of the song's percussive groove are carefully honed by Joe, showcasing his dedication to music.
