The worlds of synth-pop and acid house have collided in spectacular fashion as Pet Shop Boys unveil their electrifying remix of Primal Scream’s Innocent Money. This unexpected collaboration breathes new life into the 1994 track, transforming it into a pulsating, club-ready anthem. But what truly sets this remix apart? None other than Neil Tennant’sunmistakable vocals, lending the track a fresh dimension of theatricality and charm.

An Unexpected Collaboration

Primal Scream’s Innocent Money—originally a gritty, psychedelic-infused rock track from their Give Out But Don’t Give Up album—might not seem like an obvious choice for a dance remix. But Pet Shop Boys have never been ones to play by the rules. Their reimagining of the track pays homage to the acid house movement while injecting their signature synth-driven euphoria.

With Chris Lowe’s pulsating production and Tennant’s distinct, almost spoken-word vocal delivery, the remix blurs the lines between ’90s rave culture and British indie rock. It’s a full-circle moment for both acts, who each, in their own way, helped define the sound of the late 20th century.

A Return to Acid House

While Pet Shop Boys are best known for their sophisticated synth-pop, their roots in electronic music run deep. Their early work flirted with house and Italo disco, but this remix fully embraces the acid house aesthetic—complete with squelching Roland TB-303 basslines, hypnotic hi-hats, and euphoric build-ups.

This remix is not just a modern update; it’s a nostalgic nod to the late ‘80s and early ‘90s club scene, where tracks like this would have been right at home in the legendary Hacienda or London’s Shoom.

Neil Tennant’s Vocals: The Perfect Addition

What elevates this remix from being just another dance rework is Tennant’s vocal presence. Instead of merely reshaping Bobby Gillespie’s original vocals, Tennant fully takes over, reinterpreting the lyrics with his signature deadpan delivery.

His voice adds an unexpected detachment and irony, creating a fascinating contrast against the raw, hedonistic themes of the original song. Where Gillespie’s version felt rebellious and ragged, Tennant’s interpretation makes it feel almost satirical—like an outsider coolly observing the excesses of the era.

Why This Remix Matters

Beyond being an irresistible banger for dance floors and die-hard fans alike, this remix signifies something bigger. It showcases the timeless adaptability of both Pet Shop Boys and Primal Scream, proving that great music transcends genres.

It also taps into the growing resurgence of acid house and rave culture, with artists across the board revisiting the golden era of dance music. By infusing Primal Scream’s raw energy with their electronic finesse, Pet Shop Boys have crafted a remix that feels both retro and futuristic—an exhilarating fusion of rock rebellion and dancefloor euphoria.