3 Of The Week: ‘Wicked Game’

For those reading who have a heart, it’s probably been melted at some point by Chris Isaak’s quintessential ballad “Wicked Game”. Without reading too deeply into the lyrics, the song might be about somebody wanting to fall in love with another person / object. It’s wonderful and beautiful, and here are three remixes to celebrate this turn-of-the-90s love banger, just in time for the highest of chocolate holidays.

1. “Wicked Game (James Carter & Levi Remix)” – Tula

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Female vocals surreptitiously ease you into the heartbreaking sentiments that lie ahead in this tropical track. As a remix of a cover, this may be the farthest departure from the original track, but it is definitely evocative of the beachscapes in Chris Isaaks’ cheese fest of a music video. As an added bonus, this version encourages me to play my favorite Wicked Game: Trying to order a Mai Tai at a bar without sounding like a complete asshole.

2. “Wicked Game (Adriatique & Thyladomid Edit)” – Chris Isaak

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We’re heating up! The iconic opening riff gets an upbeat treatment with the help of a trio of Diyanamic darlings. Isaak’s vocals echo throughout the tune, turning the singer’s yowls into another emotional effect and providing balance to this dance floor appropriation.

3. “Wicked Game Edit”– Soul Clap

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This is, hands down, the most bewitching remix of “Wicked Game” (sorry, Richie Hawtin). As opposed to bringing the track to the dance floor, Soul Clap brings the sultry moves straight to your amygdala. This Crew Love duo serves some blue love, staying true to the original track’s soulful essence, while layering on a playful tone. Not only can Soul Clap be caught playing in major U.S. cities in the coming months, but be sure to keep an eye out for these deep house masters at Coachella.