No intro needed. NY’s edit king puts his veteran touch on a Pointer Sisters’ 1978 heater, “Happiness” (penned by Allen Toussaint). Mr. K starts the song with what sounds like a live recording from a worship session, and the epic, gospel-inspired build-up transitions smoothly into the 12-inch studio mix. The latter half is extended with synth strings and a never-before-heard closing acappella over the breakdown: SHUTDOWN. Flip the record over for “As.” For another essential DJ version, Mr. K takes his blade to freshen up Gene Harris’ cover of Stevie Wonder; expect crispier percussion and an added emphasis on the electric piano and backing choir parts.
- music label: Most Excellent Unlimited 2019