OwL Remix cover

OwL Remix

Low · 1998

52 min · 8 tracks · alternative rock

A mesmerizing blend of ambient textures and experimental beats that reimagines Low's signature sound through a diverse array of remixers.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Down (Porter Ricks remix) Start here — This extended remix transforms the original track into an expansive ambient journey, showcasing the potential of reinterpretation in electronic music.
  • →
    Over the Ocean (Tranquility Bass’ ’91 Party dance mix) — This track exemplifies the fusion of Low's melodic sensibilities with upbeat dance rhythms, highlighting the versatility of their core material.
  • →
    Words (Jimmy Somerville/Sally Herbert’s J+S mix) — Featuring a unique vocal interplay, this remix underscores the emotional depth of Low's lyrics while adding an infectious groove that invites movement.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases innovative remixes that blend Low's sound with electronic influences, creating a distinct listening experience.

What we noticed

  • Each track is a remix of a song from Low's previous work, transforming the original material into new electronic interpretations.
  • Several tracks incorporate extended instrumental sections that emphasize texture over traditional song structure.
  • The running time of each track varies significantly, with some remixes extending beyond six minutes, allowing for gradual build-ups and shifts.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • expansive sonic landscapes to explore
  • steady flow with immersive peaks
  • background warmth for deep focus
  • subtle transformations for attentive listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking fast-paced instant gratification
  • prefer standalone tracks over cohesion

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — This remix album represents a departure from Low's established sound, exploring new musical territory.
Themes
ambient reinterpretation· dance floor fusion· electronic experimentation
Career context
Released in January 1998, OwL Remix came during Low's early career, following their acclaimed album Long Division. This remix album showcased the band's willingness to experiment with their sound, opening up to electronic influences while still rooted in alternative rock.
Stylistic neighbors
The National· Red House Painters· Bon Iver

Tracklist

  • 1 Down (Porter Ricks remix) Start here 13:25
  • 2 Anon (Neotropic’s Spore remix) 5:10
  • 3 Over the Ocean (Tranquility Bass’ ’91 Party dance mix) 6:39
  • 4 Laugh (DJ Vadim’s Vox‐Reverse Tele remix) 5:44
  • 5 Anon (Neotropic’s Pollen remix) 5:12
  • 6 Do You Know How to Waltz? (Neotropic’s Vert remix) 4:31
  • 7 Over the Ocean (Skull Valley Dub’s re‐remix of Tranquility Bass ’91 Party dance mix) 5:45
  • 8 Words (Jimmy Somerville/Sally Herbert’s J+S mix) 6:26

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata