2 Sinners - Second Thoughts (Marcus Intalex & ST Files Remix) (Mechanoise Records, 2000)
This tune ticks the box for Day 2 of the DnB Advent calendar twice with both an appropriate artist and title. It also gives me the opportunity to pay a belated tribute to Marcus Kaye AKA Marcus Intalex, whose unexpected passing last year left a huge hole in the Drum & Bass world. His productions were always impeccable and he was an incredible DJ, while he also helmed the excellent Soul:R and Revolve:r labels. Tracks such as 'How You Make Me Feel' and 'Universe' (both with ST Files) will forever remain close to my heart. But to truly understand his legacy you have to hear from those who knew him and were inspired by him. Check this piece in Mixmag published one year on from his death which features interviews with DRS, Calibre and Martyn amongst others. It leaves the final word though to his Mum, Pat:
“Marcus’s legacy to the world is his music and also his humanity. His legacy to me is his amazing friends whose love and support are ongoing, and you are all now part of my family. Marcus was simply loved and respected by everyone. As a proud but sad mum, I could not ask for more. Please keep enjoying his music, and I love and thank you all.”
Marcus Intalex & ST Files produced several high profile remixes back around the turn of the century, with tracks such as MJ Cole’s ‘Sincere’, 4hero’s ‘9 By 9’ and Un-Cut’s ‘Midnight' all receiving the M.I.S.T. treatment. Their remix of 2 Sinners’ ‘Second Thoughts’ wasn't as well known though, probably thanks to it being a fairly low key release on a UK Breaks label. It’s a little gem of a tune though and one that deserves a bit more recognition.
2 Sinners were the duo of Carl Hovland and Klaus Hill, the former being better known to drum and bass heads as one third of Usual Suspects. The pair put out several UK Breaks releases between 2000 and 2003 with ‘Second Thoughts’ being one of their first productions together. Released on the Mechanoise Records label in 2000, the original mix isn't my sort of thing, but Marcus Intalex & ST Files provide a typically sleek and sexy remix on the flip. It opens with the original’s spacey synth arpeggios and sensual “Inside my soul…” vocal over a light bongo loop before meatier drums that sound like they use a couple of hits from the Humpty Dump break really get things going. The duo then introduce a knocking two note bassline that combines nicely with the drums for a remix that shows their ability to produce smooth tunes that still bump. What’s more the 12″ is currently available on discogs for next to nothing, making it a great little Christmas present to yourself. RIP Marcus