Authored by Wesley Mateo Johnson

Hailing from southern France, the quartet of producers by the name of Visages have gained the respect of both the dubstep and drum and bass communities across their stint in the studio thus far. Since their inception, the group has honed their own sound through a rapidly growing discography, with each release feeling fresher than the last. Having a veritable home with the globally-admired 1985 Music crew, the group is perpetually plugged into the nexus of their distinct flavors and motifs. Brandishing their well-regarded midas touch for their lengthiest release to date, the From Lead to Gold LP showcases an undeniable style over the span of eight-tracks, including the group’s first ever collaboration with their label-head Alix Perez.

The first track of the group’s final release of 2022 is a larger than life dubstep tune entitled “MK Ultra” This track sets the tone of the album with a dark and foreboding sample referencing the highly controversial CIA experiment before blasting through rippling bass lines and snarling synths over air-tight percussion. The next tune, “Sheitan”, continues the foreboding theme at pace. The track picks up the tempo, showcasing rock-solid low end in combination with dashes and elements of breakcore. Following up the darker duo, the collaboration with Alix Perez, “Black Katana”, channels every facet of 1985’s legendary appeal and design, brimming with scintillating synthesis across sauntered downbeats. The final arc of the record showcases the soulful side of Visages, including a refreshing liquid drum and bass tune “Emotional Software”, before dropping into the high energy “Ace of Spades” collaboration with fellow 1985 label-mate Monty.

The aptly-named From Lead to Gold puts everything on the table, from high-fidelity mixdowns to the breadth of sound design, percussive programming, and sheer groove. Continuing on their journey into the depths of system music, we’re keeping our ears perked up for any future movements from this fantastic production quartet, and keeping From Lead to Gold repeat until then. Make sure you stay up to date with Visages, as well as their veteran labelmates on 1985 Music wherever good tunes find a home.

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