Following the release of the critically acclaimed Random Access Memories 10th Anniversary Edition earlier this year, Random Access Memories (Drumless Edition) is a new iteration of the GRAMMY-award winning Album of the Year, stripping away all drum and percussive elements from the album. Doing so brings out a timeless quality to the album, allowing listeners to dive deeper into the layers of each track.
The drumless version becomes a brand new album, allowing listeners to experience the classic album in a new light. While it does seem slightly ludicrous to release an album without drums; it is extra content from a duo that infamously lacked content.
Why have Daft Punk released this version? In the absence of an official explanation, various theories have emerged. Some enthusiasts suggest that the RAM Drumless edition caters to DJs and producers keen on crafting their custom mixes and bootlegs—an idea that seems reasonable but doesn’t quite align with the costly Drumless merchandise or the resistance of major labels to fan-made remixes that violate copyright. The third release for RAM appears to be driven by financial motives, a departure from what one would expect considering Daft Punk’s typically upheld values.
The tracks feel empty and times and just when you think something (drums) will be introduced, it isn’t. It is an interesting concept, but maybe Daft Punk are not the right producers for the idea, given their fantastic drums. The tracks have a flair to them that is more score-like. Whatever you think about Daft Punk releasing this drumless version, it’s great to see the project still alive. For such an impactful duo, any substance is golden.
Photo Credit: David Black
