Pink Rhythm – An 80s Love Affair

John Rocca, renowned for his work with the iconic band Freeez, re-emerges with the vinyl release of An 80s Love Affair under his project Pink Rhythm, thanks to Beggars Banquet Records. This collection captures the essence of Rocca’s post-Freeez endeavors, blending the signature jazz-funk and electro elements that defined the mid-80s dance music scene. The album is a testament to Rocca’s ability to craft timeless grooves, drawing on his rich history of influencing genres and inspiring future generations of musicians.

An 80s Love Affair brings together six standout tracks from Pink Rhythm’s original 12” singles, highlighting Rocca’s mastery of blending smooth jazz-funk with the burgeoning electro sound of the time. The opening track, “Melodies of Love,” sets the tone with its slow jam bassline, exuding a seductive charm that flows effortlessly into the sultry vibes of “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love.” These tracks, alongside the hypnotic rhythms of “India” and the electro-funk energy of “More & More,” showcase Rocca’s keen sense of rhythm and melody. Fans of artists like Shalamar and Change will find much to love in these tracks, which encapsulate the sound of an era that still resonates today.

Rocca’s influence on the dance music landscape is undeniable. With Freeez, he introduced the world to groundbreaking tracks like “IOU,” which became a staple of 80s electro music and was famously sampled by artists such as Jamie xx and Burial. In Pink Rhythm, Rocca continued to explore and expand his sound, infusing it with the jazz-funk flair that had always been a part of his musical identity. This project also served as a platform for Rocca to push the boundaries of what dance music could be, much like contemporaries such as Arthur Baker and Nile Rodgers, who also played pivotal roles in shaping the sound of the 80s.

The release of An 80s Love Affair on vinyl is not just a nod to nostalgia but a celebration of Rocca’s enduring legacy in the music industry. His transition from the dance floors of the 80s to the experimental soundscapes of his later projects, like Midi Rain, reflects a career marked by constant evolution and innovation. For collectors and new listeners alike, this album offers a glimpse into the creative mind of an artist who helped define a genre and continues to inspire with his timeless sound.