Supposedly, disco died more than 30 years ago, yet leave it to a group like Daft Punk to remind people why the genre is one that can still be relevant in 2013.

Officially released Friday at midnight, the first single off Daft Punk’s upcoming album “Random Access Memories” doesn’t just invoke the era of disco, they bring in a legend to give it some legitimacy: Chic guitarist and principal musician/songwriter Nile Rodgers.

There’s always been a part of me that wondered if the disco feel could ever be recreated properly, but occasionally, someone nails it. Here it is, and oh, is it glorious! Daft Punk is heavily a part of this though (and their trademark robotic singing makes a cameo near the end), but the track emphasizes a turn the group is making with the new album, weaving away from synthesized sounds towards more organic instrumentation.  It’s a clever zig when everyone else is racing towards the electronic door lately, and if this single is any indication, they’ve clearly got things under control.

It should be noted that Pharrell Williams is the vocal killer here, a great take by an artist that should is deservedly taking another turn in the spotlight!

Additional listening

If you’re unfamiliar with Daft Punk, shame on you: the music’s been everywhere over the years, and has even triggered a meme, the above “Daft Hands” version of “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger.”

And “One More Time,” which its anime-influenced video, is a classic.

Nile Rodgers, meanwhile, didn’t stop at disco; he’s been producing all sorts of artists.  Among my favorites, he produced tracks for Cathy Dennis, as well as The B-52s’ legendary “Cosmic Thing” album.

“Random Access Memories” is scheduled to be released May 21.