Blackplastic stands by the fact that Death From Above (even with the 1979 they've now tagged on the end) is an incredibly stupid name for a band... Why? Because if you shorten it, it becomes DFA. The DFA is the name of a rather well known production duo and label from New York. Not everyone knows this but the DFA, as in the label / producers, also just happens to stand for Death From Above (what are the chances?).Hence, presumably, the '1979' bit. What does it mean? No idea!
Anyway, back to the topic at hand. 'Black History Month' is the latest single to be taken from the long-player 'You're a Woman, I'm a Machine' and is a personal highlight in its original form. Whilst the album is great, when it's at its best is when the songs are given just enough room to breath and let a little bit of melody shine through their tinnitus ridden soul.
Black History Month is one such example. Available on three formats the most interesting (if you already own the original, as it doesn't appear on this format) is the limited edition black 7" vinyl (black vinyl... geddit?) featuring a remix by Alan Braxe (of Daft Punk fame) & Fred Falke. This mix deserves manages to combine Death From Above's rock sensibilities with a lush melodic chorus. Rock and upfront dance haven't gone hand in hand quite so well since Justice vs. Simian's wonderful "Never Be Alone". This mix is really deserving of its own release, and with the right marketing could become a genuine radio hit. Sadly, since it is only available on 7" that ain't likely to happen.