Reworked (CD - 2006)

Audio Remixers: Craig C.; Giuseppe D.; Gomi; Joe Carrano; Junior Vasquez; Charles Judge.

Photographer: Mike Ruiz.

Save Junior Vasquez's appearance, RuPaul doesn't have the clout in 2006 to draw the big-name remixers for his Reworked collection. He does have taste, though, and this collection of remixed material -- mostly sourced from the 2004 album Red Hot -- will give hardcore fans a thrilling ride. The sounds of trance, house, and mainstream dance are all applied skillfully and there's even a bit of Kraftwerk by way of Afrika Bambaataa on the "Planet Rock"-inspired "El Lay Toya Jam" remix of "Supermodel." Unfortunately, the remixes of "Supermodel" are based on a re-recording instead of the original hit, and unless you're familiar with and a fan of Red Hot, then the rest of this really isn't for you. It's for the die-hard fan who will not only get an inspired set of remixes but also some of the strangest photographs of RuPaul -- creepy ones that might make Marilyn Manson uneasy -- in the liner notes. ~ David Jeffries minimize