I first heard Superstring when Pete Tong released a CD compilation entitled Essential Selection Ibiza 2000. The second CD was full of what we now see as classics of epic trance, which included this wonderful soaring number by Cygnus X. I’ll never forget ordering it online from Satellite Records back in the day.
The interesting part of this tune is it was originally released in 1993, only with a more early trance/90s techno sound. The soaring string chorus in the buildup was the key sound carried over to this 2000 release by remixer Rank 1. Most never really heard this tune until Rank 1’s remix was released.
The masterminds behind this great tune were German producers Matthias Hoffmann and Ralf Hildenbeutel. While Ralf left the industry, Matthias still producers under his own name. Maybe they’re not blowing up in the scene anymore, but Superstring is still a memorable anthem I listen to fifteen years later.
I so remember Captain Hollywood Project. I mainly remember how it seemed like subdued rave techno, not even realizing the eurodance explosion that was coming.
Title: Just As Long As I Got You Artist: Frankie Bones & Lenny Dee Label: XL Recordings
Genre(s): House, Acid House Year Released: 1989
At the time of this release, many knew Frankie Bones for his collaboration with Tommy Musto, which resulted in the club smash Dangerous on the Dance Floor. However, this was also the time when Bones, Musto, and DJ Lenny Dee went over to the UK and experienced the Summer of Love at an event called Energy.
Bones and Lenny Dee collaborated on their own releases, following a more underground style and sound, obviously building the starting soundtrack for their Storm Raves and the eventual evolution of dance music in America.
I personally love this tune for it’s transitioning sound. The beats and pianos normally known to much of the NYC sound of the late 80s, only put into a deeper tone with a sound sample from Love Connection. I’ll eventually play this tune on one of my old school compilations.