This is one I've pondered for years, probably since New Years '83 when KROQ out here in LA held its top 106.7. If you read the list today it does no justice to what was broadcast over the air waves. The DJs played extended versions of practically every song, and some were specially mixed (they absolutely went nuts on Bufalo Gals) . 12" singles were a big part of the new wave era and, for me anyway, took a favorite song to a higher level. If you hated them then there's no convincing you to their merits, but here's my short list nonetheless:
1. ABC - Look of Love (usa remix - dub version) Trevor Horn at his best playing with the pitch control. Its a work of abstract, ad libbed remix art.
2. New Order - Bizarre Love Triangle (Remix) Shep Pettibone with the Latin Rascals reworking the original; boosting the bass and snare to great effect.
3. B-Movie - Nowhere Girl (extended) to fully appreciate it you would have had to have become accustomed to the original 7", this one shifts gears twice before the vocals kicked in.
4. Depeche Mode - Get the Balance Right (Combination Mix) Great bass line, High energy beat, this one completely emasculates the 7"
5. FGTH - Two tribes (Video destructo mix) Horn again, this is the one with Nixon repeating over and over "keep the peace - keep the peace"