Why the XEXPAND1020M belongs in your crates
This specific pressing is a "double threat" for collectors: it contains the original masterpiece that made Biondi a household name and the definitive club remix that kept him there.
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The Voice: Biondi’s deep, resonant baritone is the star here. On 12-inch vinyl, his vocal texture has a physical presence—warm, honeyed, and commanding—that digital files flatten out.
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The High Five Quintet Factor: This isn't a synthesized backing track. It’s a world-class jazz ensemble. The interplay between the double bass and the brass section is captured with incredible "air" and separation on this 12-inch format.
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The Opolopo Mix (Side B): This is where the collector value skyrockets. Peter Major (Opolopo) is a surgical master of the remix. He took an acoustic jazz hit and turned it into a soulful house anthem without losing an ounce of its sophistication. It is arguably one of the most played "crossover" tracks in DJ history.
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The "M" Edition: The XEXPAND1020M catalog number signifies a curated release from a label that understands the "London-to-Milan" jazz connection. It’s a bridge between the jazz club and the dancefloor.
The Tracks: A Tale of Two Moods
| Side |
Version |
The Vibe |
| A1 |
Original Mix |
Pure "Blue Note" style cool. Perfect for a late-night cocktail hour or a hi-fi listening session. |
| B1 |
Opolopo Remix |
High-energy, syncopated, and groovy. It turns the original into a sun-drenched floor-filler. |
Collector’s Summary
The Verdict: If you are a fan of Gregory Porter, Barry White, or the "Jazzanova" era of Nu-Jazz, this is your cornerstone record. It represents the point where traditional jazz musicianship met modern production and actually won.
Track List
A1. This Is What You Are
B1. This Is What You Are (Opolopo Mix)