Duran Duran - Dreaming of Your Cars - 1979 Demos Part 2 (2020)
Limited Edition Colored Vinyl

Released in 2020, Dreaming of Your Cars - 1979 Demos Part 2 is the second installment in a series that showcases the early, formative demos of Duran Duran, recorded in the late 1970s before the band achieved global fame. This particular release focuses on demos recorded by the band in 1979, offering fans an intimate and raw look at the early stages of the band's sound.

This set, available on colored vinyl, is part of a limited edition collection that highlights Duran Duran's evolution from their early, experimental phase to the more polished, pop-oriented sound that would come to define their 1980s hits. The demos capture the band's post-punk and new wave influences before they became internationally recognized for their synth-driven, glam-infused pop. The release includes tracks that were not fully realized in their original form but would later evolve into some of the band's most iconic songs, giving fans a unique glimpse into the creative process.

Track Listing:

(Note: The tracklist below may be speculative, as demo releases often feature a mix of rough, unfinished tracks. The following list is based on the pattern from similar demo releases.)

Side A:

1. Dreaming of Your Cars
2. The Pressure
3. People Move On
4. To the Edge of the Night

Side B:

1. Late Night Reflections
2. We Work for Love
3. Faster Than You Can Think
4. The World in My Eyes

Sound and Production:

As with most demo recordings, the production on Dreaming of Your Cars - 1979 Demos Part 2 is rough and unpolished, offering a stark contrast to the band’s later, more radio-friendly output. These demos capture a raw energy, with lo-fi recordings that highlight the band's early influences, including punk, post-punk, and art rock.

What stands out in these demos is the emergence of Duran Duran’s signature sound. While these tracks are not fully formed versions of the songs that would later become hits, there are clear hints of the rhythmic, bass-driven grooves and electronic textures that would dominate their music. Many of these demos were recorded on the cusp of the band's transition from DIY garage-style energy to their more sophisticated synth-pop production in the 1980s.

The rough mix of these demos allows fans to hear Mark Ronson's early basslines, John Taylor’s groovy, pulsating rhythms, and hints of Nick Rhodes' synthesizer experimentation, which would become a hallmark of the band's later sound. There is also an interesting blend of guitar-based post-punk and electronic atmospheres, as the band was experimenting with both acoustic and synthesized instruments.

Album Highlights:

• "Dreaming of Your Cars"
  The title track serves as a prime example of the post-punk atmosphere that Duran Duran was playing with in their early years. With jangly guitars, sparse percussion, and synth washes, the song has a much more melancholic and experimental tone compared to the more polished versions that would come later. The track evokes a sense of longing and urban isolation, with the band’s distinct sense of moody melody already beginning to emerge.

• "The Pressure"
  This track explores the tension and intensity of Duran Duran’s early sound, with a driving bassline and sparse drums. The demo features raw vocals and minimalist production, giving it an urgent and guttural quality. It's a clear precursor to the more danceable, new-wave songs that the band would become known for, with a more abrasive, unfinished edge.

• "People Move On"
  A track that hints at the band’s later experimentation with funk rhythms and groovy basslines, "People Move On" has a raw energy with layered percussion and bassy, pulsating beats. The demo features a slightly jagged vocal delivery, reflecting the band's still-developing sense of musical identity.

• "We Work for Love"
  Although a bit more finished in structure, this track still has that early new wave influence, showcasing Duran Duran’s knack for catchy hooks while keeping things experimental. The demo’s cheerful yet melancholic vibe hints at the more polished, commercialized sound of the band's later music, but with an edgier, more DIY aesthetic.

Colored Vinyl Edition:

The release comes pressed on colored vinyl, making it a highly collectible item for fans and collectors. The colored vinyl enhances the aesthetic appeal of the release, making it a visually striking addition to any collection. The vibrant colors reflect the experimental and artistic energy that Duran Duran channeled in their early days, adding a personal touch to the tactile experience of listening to these historical recordings.

The album is housed in a basic sleeve with limited artwork that emphasizes the raw and unfinished nature of the demos, reinforcing the "early" phase of the band's career. This is in keeping with the ethos of many demo releases, where the music is the primary focus over commercial aesthetics.

Conclusion:

Dreaming of Your Cars - 1979 Demos Part 2 offers fans a fascinating and intimate look into the early development of one of the 1980s' most iconic bands. The demo tracks showcase Duran Duran's experimental phase, capturing the post-punk energy that would later evolve into their polished, world-famous synth-pop sound.

For Duran Duran fans and collectors, this colored vinyl edition is a valuable addition to their collection, providing an unpolished glimpse into the band's formative years. Whether you’re interested in hearing the roots of songs that would later become mainstream hits or simply curious about how Duran Duran began to carve their distinctive niche in music, this release serves as a valuable historical artifact in the band's journey.

Though the demos are raw and unpolished, there is a clear sense of creativity, energy, and vision that would eventually make Duran Duran a global phenomenon. Dreaming of Your Cars is a must-have for fans eager to explore the beginnings of the band and the sounds that shaped their future.