A Disco Masterpiece: Alec R. Costandinos' Romeo & Juliet – A Timeless Classic

 

A Disco Masterpiece: Alec R. Costandinos' Romeo & Juliet – A Timeless Classic DJ Alex Gutierrez

In the world of disco, few albums have left as lasting an impression as Alec R. Costandinos' Romeo & Juliet. Released in 1978, this first studio album from the iconic disco musician and composer stands as a testament to the genre’s creativity and ability to break boundaries. For those of us who lived through the era and continue to spin vinyl at disco events, Romeo & Juliet holds a special place in our hearts. The record, recorded at the legendary Trident Studios in London, was not only a hit but also an experiment that showed the world how disco could transcend dancefloors and become an art form.

A Groundbreaking Production

Recorded at Trident Studios in September 1977, Romeo & Juliet was an innovative fusion of disco, orchestral arrangements, and literary genius. Trident Studios, the birthplace of countless iconic albums, was also the first to feature a 48-track recording system, allowing artists to explore intricate layers of sound. This technical achievement was crucial to the ambitious production that Costandinos envisioned. Arranged by the talented Don Ray, Romeo & Juliet stood apart from other disco albums at the time with its expansive soundscapes and sophisticated arrangements.

For me, as a long-time disco DJ and music enthusiast, this album is nothing short of a masterpiece. Alec Costandinos, renowned for thinking beyond the conventional boundaries of disco, took an unprecedented step by incorporating the actual text of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet into the album. This approach made the record unique—where else had a disco album dared to integrate such high art into a danceable format?

Shakespeare Meets Disco

The album begins with the iconic spoken-word Prologue, “Two households, both alike in dignity…” — the very lines from Shakespeare’s play. This dramatic opening, immediately pulling the listener into the world of Verona, sets the stage for an exploration of love, passion, and tragedy, set to a disco beat. The choice to use Shakespeare’s words wasn’t merely for artistic flair; it was a bold statement on the potential of the disco genre to be elevated, to tell a story with deep emotional resonance.

Costandinos’ genius lay in his ability to blend the sophistication of Shakespeare’s writing with the energy and pulse of disco. The album flows seamlessly between disco tracks, orchestral elements, and dramatic storytelling, making it not just music, but an experience. With songs like "Love’s Theme" and "The Ballad of Romeo and Juliet," the album builds a narrative, taking listeners on a journey from the first meeting of the lovers to their tragic end. The integration of orchestral strings, rich bass lines, and lush arrangements created a rich tapestry that lifted the music into another dimension.

The Personal Connection: Visiting Trident Studios

I had the privilege of visiting Trident Studios in London, where Romeo & Juliet was brought to life. It’s a place steeped in history, having hosted the creation of classic albums by artists like Queen, David Bowie, and Elton John. The sheer magnitude of the studio’s legacy made the experience surreal. Visiting the location where Costandinos and Don Ray crafted Romeo & Juliet felt like stepping into the very heart of musical history. I could almost hear the echoes of the grand orchestra and the disco beats that would soon capture the world’s attention. The idea that such a pivotal album was made at a studio known for pushing the limits of sound made it even more significant for me as a lifelong fan of the music.

The Podcast Interview: A Glimpse into the Creative Process

Fifteen years ago, on our podcast Open House Radio, we had the honor of interviewing Alec R. Costandinos about the making of Romeo & Juliet. During our conversation, Alec shared stories about the production process that only added to my admiration of the album. He spoke of the challenges and the excitement of blending Shakespeare’s timeless words with the modern beats of disco. It was a true labor of love, one that demonstrated Alec’s passion for not only creating music but for creating something that would stand the test of time.

One of the most memorable moments from the interview was Alec’s reflection on the creation of the Prologue and how he chose which Shakespearean lines to include. The decision to open the album with the famous lines about two noble families, "alike in dignity," was not just about quoting Shakespeare—it was about setting the stage for something grand, an exploration of love and fate through music.

A Modern Remaster and the Evolution of a Classic

In 2024, a remastered version of Romeo & Juliet was released, and it’s remarkable to hear how the album has been updated. One notable difference in this remastered version is the spoken word intro, which has been altered. The phrase “The Most excellent and Lamentable tragedy of Romeo and Juliette, Newly corrected and augmented” is now voiced by Alec in his older voice, adding a layer of nostalgia and wisdom to the album’s already timeless nature. It’s a beautiful touch that connects the past with the present, honoring the album’s legacy while showcasing Alec’s enduring artistic presence.

As a DJ in South Florida, Romeo & Juliet remains a staple at the disco events I host. Even decades after its release, it is still one of the most requested tracks, with its unforgettable 13-minute and 45-second epic journey through love and tragedy. The song is a crowd favorite, a true disco classic that never fails to evoke energy on the dancefloor. The enduring popularity of this track is a testament to its power—it is the epitome of the timeless magic of disco.

A Special Place in Disco History

For veteran disco DJs like myself, Romeo & Juliet is more than just a song. It is a connection to the heart and soul of an era, a reminder of the creative heights disco could reach when artists pushed boundaries. Alec Costandinos’ vision, paired with Don Ray’s arrangements, resulted in an album that transcends time and genre. It is not just a product of the late ‘70s disco era but a piece of art that continues to captivate and inspire.

As we move further into 2024, Romeo & Juliet still stands as one of the greatest achievements in disco music, a true masterpiece that has proven its place in music history. It is a shining example of how art and music can come together in ways we never expect, creating something that resonates with listeners across generations. Alec R. Costandinos, with Romeo & Juliet, created not just a disco record, but an album that continues to speak to the hearts of fans around the world—myself included.