Ten City originally released “That’s The Way Love Is” in 1989. The rework doesn’t deviate far from the original, framing Stingily’s melancholy vocals with nostalgic instrumentals. Updated production elements give the song a modern veneer, making it a fitting accompaniment to the other songs that will appear on the album.

Ten City originally consisted of Stingily, Byron Burke and Herb Lawson, who before that were the members of a separate group called Ragtyme. Jefferson produced music for them, but was not an official member until he and Stingily joined forces to revive the project this year.

Judgement will mark the first Ten City album in 27 years. Prior to “That’s The Way Love Is,” the duo shared two tracks from the effort: “Be Free” in February and “Devotion” in March.

Stream or purchase “That’s The Way Love Is” across platforms here.

It’s apt that Jefferson and Brightledge have chosen Smeddles to help provide a modern twist for this house classic as he’s not strayed too far from the feel-good piano house style of the original. Smeddles has reimagined “It’s Alright” for the modern dance floor, with some added punch in the drums and bass line. While the original maintains an air of nostalgia, after all, the mix and master leave something to be desired in the context of contemporary house music.

1987 was yet another tumultuous time in the world, and Brightledge’s vocals spoke to that: “Dictation being forced in Afghanistan/Revolution in South Africa taking a stand/People in Eurasia on the brink of oppression.” Meanwhile, the song’s bright and uplifting piano riffs support the overall message of hope. Brightledge joyously sings that “Music will last/Never dissipating, but giving us strength.” It’s surely a sentiment that we can all use in a year that has been rife with uncertainty.

A portion of the royalties from “It’s Alright” will be donated to St. Catherine’s Hospice, located in England’s northwestern city of Lancashire. The palliative care facility helped a close friend of Smeddles who passed from cancer last year.

“Last year, I lost one of my best friends,” Smeddles said in a statement to Mixmag. “He spent his last few weeks in a hospice and from spending time there with him it completely shocked me to find out how selfless, gracious, and humble these people are that work there. The attention and care Matt received at St Catherine’s Hospice was seriously out of this world.”

“It’s Alright” is out now on Ultra Records.