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A New Release on X Recordings
Rising producer Kotiēr has unveiled his new take on Bronski Beat’s iconic classic “Smalltown Boy”. It is released via X Recordings, the label founded by Swiss duo Adriatique.
The release marks an important milestone for the imprint. It becomes the first track on X Recordings from an external artist outside of Adriatique themselves.
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Reimagining an ’80s Classic
Originally released in 1984, “Smalltown Boy” remains one of Bronski Beat’s most influential records and a defining moment in synth-pop history.
With his new version, Kotiēr keeps the emotional weight and melodic identity of the original intact. However, he pushes it into a darker, more atmospheric electronic direction. The result is a modern dancefloor-focused reinterpretation. It is built around tension, movement, and late-night energy.
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Supported by Major Names
Ahead of its official release, Kotiēr’s version of “Smalltown Boy” received support from some of the biggest names in electronic music. These include CamelPhat, John Summit, and Adriatique.
That early support helped the track build momentum across clubs and festival sets. As a result, it gave the record a strong presence before its full release.
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A Personal Connection for Kotiēr
For Kotiēr, the record carries a personal meaning. He grew up in a small town outside New York, away from a major electronic music scene. Therefore, his connection to “Smalltown Boy” goes beyond nostalgia.
That background gives the rework an added emotional layer. It ties his own journey as an artist to the spirit of the original track. That is a song about leaving a small place behind and searching for something bigger.
