Gettin’ down isn’t exactly the first aspect of Factory Records’ bizarre legacy. Sure, the label had a major hand in the Madchester scene, and Happy Mondays’ brand of rave-funk-rock was the epitome of British house music in those formative years. But Factory’s reputation is tied more closely to the cold anxiety of Joy Division than the Hacienda’s legendary parties.
Strut Records is intent on reminding you of the straight-up dance aspect of the label with this follow-up to FAC. Dance 01. Diehard fans can relax: This isn’t an exercise in cashing-in by any means. The scope here is fully realized, including necessary “hits” from ESG, A Certain Ratio, Section 25 and Quando Quango, down to ephemera from Sir Hiratio, Biting Tongues, and Fadela. It’s a fitting snapshot of the label’s less gloomy side.
And luckily, this collection of dance and 12-inch mixes is available just in time for any end-of-summer throwdowns.
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