Smart E's Sesame's Treet 12 Mix [1992] A Rave Classic

Hey guys! Today, let's dive deep into a classic piece of rave history: the Smart E's — Sesame's Treet 12" Mix from 1992. This track is more than just a song; it's a cultural artifact that encapsulates the energy and spirit of the early 90s rave scene. If you're a fan of old-school hardcore, jungle, or just electronic music in general, this is one track you absolutely need to know about. We’ll explore why this tune made such a splash and continues to resonate with listeners today.

A Blast from the Past: The Origins of Smart E's

The story of Smart E's begins in the vibrant and rapidly evolving UK rave scene of the early 1990s. This was a time when electronic music was exploding in popularity, with genres like hardcore, jungle, and drum and bass beginning to take shape. In this fertile environment, a group of talented producers came together under the moniker Smart E's to create music that was both innovative and irresistibly danceable. Their breakthrough track, "Sesame's Treet," perfectly captures the playful yet intense vibe of the era.

The Birth of an Anthem

"Sesame's Treet" was released in 1992, a pivotal year for rave culture. The track’s infectious energy and creative sampling quickly made it a hit in clubs and on pirate radio stations across the UK. But what exactly made this tune so special? The genius of "Sesame's Treet" lies in its clever use of samples. The producers took the instantly recognizable theme song from the children's television show Sesame Street and twisted it into a high-energy rave anthem. This unexpected juxtaposition of childhood nostalgia with hard-hitting beats and basslines was a stroke of brilliance. The track’s playful melody is layered over a driving hardcore rhythm, creating a sound that is both familiar and utterly unique.

The Impact on the Rave Scene

When "Sesame's Treet" dropped, it wasn't just another track; it was a cultural phenomenon. The tune spread like wildfire through the rave scene, becoming an instant classic. DJs couldn't get enough of it, and ravers went wild whenever they heard that iconic Sesame Street theme tune drop into the mix. The track's success wasn't just about its catchiness; it also captured the spirit of the rave scene itself. Raves were all about letting loose, having fun, and embracing a sense of community. "Sesame's Treet," with its playful vibe and high energy, perfectly embodied this ethos. It was a track that could get everyone on the dance floor, no matter their background or musical taste. The sheer novelty of the track also played a significant role in its popularity. In a scene that was constantly pushing boundaries, "Sesame's Treet" stood out for its bold and imaginative use of sampling. It showed that anything was possible in the world of rave music, and it inspired other producers to think outside the box.

Deconstructing the Track: What Makes It Tick?

Let's break down what makes "Sesame's Treet" such a memorable piece of music. The track is a masterclass in sampling, taking a well-known theme and transforming it into something entirely new. But it's not just about the sample; it's about how the producers used it. The Sesame Street melody is instantly recognizable, but it's also surprisingly versatile. Smart E's managed to twist and manipulate the melody, adding layers of distortion and effects to create a sound that is both nostalgic and cutting-edge.

The Hardcore Foundation

Underneath the playful melody lies a solid foundation of hardcore beats and basslines. The track's driving rhythm is what really gets the energy going, providing the perfect backdrop for the Sesame Street sample. The drums are punchy and relentless, pushing the tempo to a frenetic pace. The bassline is deep and resonant, adding a sense of weight and power to the track. This combination of hard-hitting beats and playful melodies is a hallmark of the early hardcore sound, and "Sesame's Treet" exemplifies this style perfectly.

The Genius of the Arrangement

The arrangement of "Sesame's Treet" is another key factor in its success. The track builds gradually, introducing new elements and layers of sound to keep the listener engaged. The iconic Sesame Street theme is used sparingly, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement. When the melody finally drops, it's all the more impactful. The track also features clever use of breakdowns and builds, creating moments of tension and release that are perfect for the dance floor. These dynamic shifts in energy are what make "Sesame's Treet" such a compelling listening experience, even decades after its release. The producers clearly understood how to craft a track that would keep ravers moving from start to finish.

The Legacy of Sesame's Treet: More Than Just a Tune

"Sesame's Treet" is more than just a catchy tune; it's a piece of rave history. The track captured the spirit of a generation and helped to define the sound of early 90s hardcore. Its influence can still be heard in electronic music today, with producers continuing to draw inspiration from its innovative use of sampling and its infectious energy. This track's legacy extends beyond the dance floor. It’s a reminder of a time when electronic music was pushing boundaries and creating new cultural spaces. The rave scene of the early 90s was a melting pot of creativity and experimentation, and "Sesame's Treet" perfectly embodies this spirit.

A Cultural Touchstone

For many people who were involved in the rave scene, "Sesame's Treet" is a cultural touchstone. It evokes memories of sweaty dance floors, all-night parties, and a sense of shared euphoria. The track's popularity also speaks to the power of music to transcend boundaries. Here was a tune that sampled a children's TV show theme and turned it into a hardcore anthem, uniting people from all walks of life on the dance floor. This ability to bring people together is one of the most enduring legacies of the rave scene, and "Sesame's Treet" played a significant role in this cultural movement.

Influence on Future Music

The impact of "Sesame's Treet" can be seen in the music that followed. Its innovative use of sampling paved the way for countless other producers to experiment with unconventional sounds and sources. The track's success also helped to popularize the hardcore sound, which went on to influence genres like jungle, drum and bass, and breakbeat. Even today, producers in various electronic music genres cite "Sesame's Treet" as an inspiration. Its legacy as a groundbreaking and influential track is secure.

Where Are They Now? The Story of Smart E's

So, what happened to Smart E's after the success of "Sesame's Treet"? The group continued to produce music throughout the 1990s, releasing a string of well-received tracks. While they never quite replicated the massive success of their debut single, they remained a respected name in the hardcore scene. The members of Smart E's have also been involved in various other projects over the years. Some have continued to produce electronic music, while others have explored different musical avenues. Their contribution to the rave scene, however, remains firmly cemented in history.

The Enduring Appeal

Even though it was released over three decades ago, "Sesame's Treet" still sounds fresh and exciting today. Its timeless quality is a testament to the skill and creativity of the producers behind it. The track continues to be played at clubs and festivals around the world, and it remains a firm favorite among old-school ravers and new fans alike. If you haven't heard "Sesame's Treet" yet, do yourself a favor and give it a listen. You might just discover your new favorite old-school anthem.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Smart E's — Sesame's Treet 12" Mix [1992] is more than just a rave track; it's a piece of cultural history. Its innovative sampling, high-energy beats, and playful vibe captured the spirit of the early 90s rave scene and continue to resonate with listeners today. This is a tune that deserves its place in the pantheon of classic electronic music. So next time you're looking for a dose of old-school rave energy, give "Sesame's Treet" a spin. You won't be disappointed!