Exciting news for fans of 80s techno-pop! Vivabeat, the iconic band that captured the essence of the era, has announced the release of remastered reissues of their treasured back catalog. This revival, set for March 1st, comes in collaboration with the 80s-focused Rubellan Remasters, bringing a fresh breath of life to the band’s vintage tunes.
The project, spearheaded by founding members Marina Muhlfriedel (Marina del Rey) and Mick Muhlfriedel, surfaced from an unexpected discovery of tape masters hidden in the depths of a closet. This find has led to the rejuvenation of Vivabeat’s classic sound, delivering a nostalgic yet fresh listening experience.
Rubellan Remasters is rolling out two distinct projects simultaneously. First, an elevated edition of Vivabeat’s debut album, “Party in the War Zone,” featuring ten additional tracks from the years following the original release. Second, “The House is Burning,” a limited edition, purple and blue colored vinyl compilation, including four never-before-released songs.
Marina Muhlfriedel reflects on the journey, “When a fan suggested we connect with Rubellan Remasters’ Scott Davies, we followed through and were thrilled at the prospect of bringing our music back into the limelight.”
Mick Muhlfriedel adds, “Digitizing the tapes and remixing some tracks, with assistance from the legendary Earle Mankey, has truly revitalized our music. Scott Davies’ expert remastering has injected new energy into our beloved tracks.”
Vivabeat’s Legacy
Formed in L.A. in 1978, Vivabeat was a melting pot of musicians from both Los Angeles and Boston, carving a unique niche in the punk/new wave scene. The band, active until the mid-1980s, included members with diverse and impressive backgrounds. Their debut album featured the hit “Man from China,” which not only caught the attention of Peter Gabriel but also became a top 20 dance hit in Europe, the U.S., and Asia.
By 1982, Vivabeat had established itself alongside mainstream New Wave bands, sharing stages with iconic groups like Depeche Mode and R.E.M. The reissues are also a heartfelt tribute to late members Terrance Robay, Connie DiSilva, Alec Murphy, and Doug Orilio.
Marina Muhlfriedel is now a writer and performer in Los Angeles, hosting a rock and roll storytelling show, “Our Lips Unsealed.” Mick Muhlfriedel leads a youth soccer non-profit and is working on a new album with his experimental project, Buff Roshi.
The Reissue Track Lists
“Party in the War Zone” and “The House is Burning: The Best of 1979-1986” feature a rich collection of Vivabeat’s tracks, including previously unreleased gems.
“Party in the War Zone” Track List:
- Working for William
- From The Bop
- To The Heart … [list continues] …
- Blue Guitars (Previously Unreleased)
“The House is Burning: The Best of 1979-1986” Track List:
Side One:
- Man From China
- Working For William … [list continues] … Side Two:
- The Blue Guitars (Previously Unreleased)
- Angry Red Planet (Previously Unreleased) … [list continues] …
Vivabet’s new releases are a Must-Have for 80s Music Lovers
This release is not just a throwback; it’s a celebration of an era and a tribute to a band that left an indelible mark on the music world. For fans old and new, these reissues promise a journey back to the heart of 80s techno-pop, rekindling the spirit and style that made Vivabeat a household name.