Celebrating the 10th-year anniversary of their album Random Access Memories, Daft Punk has released a deluxe version without drums. Many people find themselves asking for the purpose of this release. Some fan sentiments might sound like:

“Why would this iconic and reputable duo release an album so hastily crafted and of poor concept?”

“The drums are the most iconic part of Random Access Memories.”

“Why would Daft Punk try to oversell this product that has already been consumed by presenting such a blatant and obvious reissue?”

I will present some counterpoints. The remixing process on this album most likely took a lot of time. The concept of removing drums sounds simple. Some people will argue that the same job can be done with AI or modern software. But I am certain that technology is not up to date where it can perfectly remove all the drum tracks on RAM without causing significant damage to the other elements in the recording. Removing drums from a drum-heavy rhythmic track will allow the listener to focus on the elements that they previously did not notice. Whether the audience is going to enjoy this new sonic picture is a different matter.

Personally, I enjoy hearing the stripped-down versions of the classic songs on RAM because I find it intriguing to get a chance to peel back the layers and understand how they were built. Looking at each element clearer to see how it contributes to a greater whole is fascinating. Now a striking question becomes, if this album was like this on release day and replaced the original RAM, would I have liked it in the same way? Definitely, I would not. My love for this album comes from my love for the original version of RAM. It is not that I don’t think the melodic contents are enough on their own. The stunning vocals and synthesizers paint a nice picture. But it would not be enough to carry my interest through listening to a whole album, had it not been for the fact that I had heard the original RAM already. However, on some tracks like "Within," I find it to be just absolutely stunning on its own.

Daft Punk stated that the purpose of this album is to allow the audience to peek into the various musical elements that make the songs. So, their purpose matches my reason for liking it quite well. Now is there a problem with that purpose? Not really. Will I save and cherish the tracks on this album like I save and cherish the tracks on the original RAM? Probably not, but I am glad I got the chance to hear it!

Author: Peter Källman

Peter Källman is a writer from Sweden who loves playing in bands, writing reviews and going to live shows!