Josh Thompson, who brandishes the thriving Bareskin alias, may be youthful in both veneer and existence, however his production craft couldn’t be any more seasoned.
We know that age doesn’t necessarily define talent; in fact, many artists in the industry almost appear to be ageless. But, when a budding young producer gets the recognition from his peers, which in turn seizes the attention of label bosses like a cardiac arrest, resulting in a quickly advancing fan base, then suddenly age is completely insignificant.
What is important, undoubtedly, is achievement, and so far Bareskin has a fairly lustrous résumé in his grasp. His side project, Wire People - a three-piece band that seduced Get Physical with their electro acoustic offerings - is in contrast to the fervent house and techno blood that courses through his veins, and something which Hypercolour wanted a second sample of.
His debut ‘Eyes’ EP on the indispensible imprint was praised for its eclectic prowess, and showcased his love for choppy basslines and hints of analogue guile. A year on, Barekskin's second installment again provides us with a mature spectrum of sounds and personality.
Opener ‘Distorted Symmetry’ should somehow be bottled and dispensed when in need of resuscitation; its energy, rapidity and euphonious vocals helps you understand why we all have a heart beat. Switching to ‘The Shape Of It’, now with s skip in our step, we receive another prod from Bareskin’s meticulous and polished arrangement, without losing that gutsy bass. And finally with ‘I Was Born To A Woman From Space’, which could be the beginning of an explanation as to Josh’s passage into our world, doesn’t relent on the pace and vigour that always inhabits his music. Let’s just stick to the fact he’s from the UK and doing us very proud indeed.
Distorted Symmetry is out now on Hypercolour. Buy it on Beatport here.