Few tracks in electronic music carry the enduring legacy of Chicane's 'Saltwater.' First released in 1999, the euphoric trance anthem has stood the test of time, weaving its ethereal melodies into the fabric of dance music history. As the track celebrates its 25th anniversary, the masked house maestro Claptone offers a fresh reinterpretation, kicking off a yearlong remix series that will see 'Saltwater' transformed through diverse musical lenses.
The new remix, released via Armada Music, sees Claptone infuse his signature groove into Chicane's seminal work, blending crisp percussion, rolling basslines, and Balearic undertones while preserving the haunting beauty of the original. The result is a club-ready rework that seamlessly bridges the gap between trance and house, offering a nostalgic yet modern take on the Ibiza classic.
A Timeless Anthem, Reimagined
Chicane, the moniker of British producer Nick Bracegirdle, first introduced 'Saltwater' to the world as a spellbinding fusion of trance, atmospheric synths, and the ethereal vocals of Clannad's 'Theme from Harry's Game.' The track became an instant classic, achieving chart success across Europe and cementing itself as a mainstay in Balearic sets and beyond.
Reflecting on the song's impact, Chicane's reputation as a pioneer of atmospheric electronic music has only grown over the years. His catalog boasts collaborations with icons like Bryan Adams and Sir Tom Jones and festival appearances from Glastonbury to Australia's Stereosonic. 'Saltwater' remains a defining track of the late '90s, influencing a generation of producers and DJs who continue to celebrate its emotive power.
Now, Claptone adds his name to the storied history of the track. Known for his deep, groove-driven productions, the enigmatic German DJ has carved out a distinctive space in house music, bringing his theatrical 'The Masquerade' events to global stages and remixing heavyweights like Elton John, Dua Lipa, and Mark Ronson. His take on 'Saltwater' retains the essence of the original while injecting a hypnotic rhythm tailor-made for modern dance floors.
Claptone's Expanding Influence
Emerging in 2012 with his breakout hit 'No Eyes,' Claptone has since built an impressive catalog, blending house, deep house, and tech house into a signature sound that has captivated audiences worldwide. His three studio albums—'Charmer,' 'Fantast,' and 'Closer'—showcase his ability to merge indie-pop sensibilities with house music, earning collaborations with artists like Seal, Barry Manilow, and James Vincent McMorrow.
Beyond his original productions, Claptone has become a sought-after remixer. His reworks of Gregory Porter's 'Liquid Spirit' and Mylo's 'Drop The Pressure' have further solidified his reputation for breathing new life into classics. Even Barack Obama included Claptone's work on his 2021 Summer Playlist—a testament to the producer's crossover appeal.
Claptone's remix of 'Saltwater' arrives as part of a larger effort to celebrate the track's milestone anniversary. While details on upcoming remixes in the series remain under wraps, this reimagination sets the bar high, ensuring that 'Saltwater' continues to evolve while maintaining its legacy as one of the most beloved tracks in dance music.
For both longtime fans and new listeners, Claptone's interpretation offers a renewed appreciation of Chicane's masterpiece, proving once again that great music is timeless.
