Old Songs Revisited and Updated

Joel Zimmerman, better known as deadmau5 (pronounced “Dead Mouse”) really doesn’t care what people think about him. He frequently pushes boundaries and takes everything a step further than most artists do and that’s what makes him a standout. Zimmerman rolls his eyes when people label him as a DJ – he sees what he does as something much more than that.

According to deadmau5.com, “He assembles tracks on the fly using cutting edge computer technology including software that he’s helped write himself.” This fact may sound like the producer is bragging about his abilities, but this statement written by a member of his team and shows how innovative and serious deadmau5 is when it comes to the music that he creates. Zimmerman’s attitude is revealed at length on 5 Years of mau5.

In today’s world of EDM, deadmau5 is one of the most famous figures, standing out from his DJ and producer peers. On 5 Years of mau5, the Canadian producer revisits some of his biggest hits from his breakthrough album, Random Album Title, and every succeeding album. 5 Years of mau5 is a two-disc set. The first disc features the original versions of some of his biggest songs. The album starts out with the hit “Ghosts ‘n’ Stuff,” which is by far one of the most recognized works out of the producer’s catalog. Other classics on the first side include, “I Remember,” “Strobe,” “The Veldt” and “Some Chords.”

According to deadmau5′ website, the second disc of the album 5 Years of mau5 features remixes that were done by “friends of deadmau5.” These friends include DJs such as Dillon Francis, Pig&Dan, Michael Woods, Nero and Chuckie. These are all updated and fresh takes on the arguably legendary producer that is deadmau5. Chuckie’s remix of “Ghosts ‘n’ Stuff” is even more up tempo and techno-like. The remix seems to have more updated machines remixing the song and altering its original take to make it appropriate for listening while attending raves. There’s also a Nero remix to “Ghosts ‘n’ Stuff” which begins with a violin type instrument then progressively turns into a more dance-like song that is much closer to the music deadmau5 traditionally releases. The music featured in this track is stronger than the vocals, which are featured merely in the background in Nero’s version.

deadmau5 puts on epic shows that are beloved among fans of all ages. 5 Years of mau5 is a pleasing double album that will appeal to listeners. With the wise decision to have all of Zimmerman’s best songs on one album, this could be a fun introduction to his music for those that are unfamiliar with deadmau5. This is a compilation album that’s been much anticipated and will most likely please longtime fans and attract new ears as well. For all audiences and lovers of incredible EDM music, this double album is being released just in time for the holidays and will make a great stocking stuffer for your loved ones.