By Keith Walsh 
Los Angeles-based duo Second Skin is doing an amazing job of tantalizing us with singles and remixes. The new “Drab Majesty Remix” of “Eyes Closed” is true to their 80s roots, with analog synths brought forward in the mix, along with lots of vintage sounding digital reverb.

Drab Majesty is also an LA act, one that’s hard to define. Described on Bandcamp.com  “the project of Deb DeMure, the androgynous alter-ego of LA-based musician Andrew Clinco and partner Mona D,”  Drab Majesty’s music features atmospheric synths, guitars, and drum machines with a romantic attitude reflected in the vocals.

The reverb-drenched sounds of the “Eyes Closed” remix is something that fans of 80s music should find pleasing.  I shouldn’t have to mention that digital reverb is a child of the 80s, or that Second Skin maintains an arsenal of vintage synth gear that makes their sound authentic. Whether Drab Majesty used only original tracks or added new tracks is worthy of further discussion.

Earlier this month I asked keyboardist Brian Tarney, Second Skin’s synth whiz (he plays alongside vocalist and guitarist Brian DaMert) how he managed to amass his collection of synths and drum machines, as well as early digital gear like the Linn Drum, and he confirmed that he’s been an analog synth aficionado and collector for at least twenty years.

The new mix features layers of pads and percolating synths, with the track’s minimalism disguised  by washes of reverb. The Linn Drum is there but less prominently than the original mix, and the ’75 Minimoog is very present reproducing the sequenced bassline. With production and creativity of this level there’s every reason to believe that Second Skin’s album (or singles, if that’s their strategy) will be something very special indeed.

Second Skin On Spotify
Second Skin On Facebook
Second Skin On Instagram
Drab Majesty On Bandcamp

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