FRND - BEFORE YOU I DIDN’T EXIST (CHARLOTTE THE MANNEQUIN REMIX)

In one of the best bits currently going in pop music, Charlotte The Mannequin is back today with a phenomenal remix, taking FRND’s "Before You I Didn't Exist" from a melodic electronic love anthem to a full on banger.

For the uninitiated, Charlotte The Mannequin is the alter ego and nemesis of Los Angeles based pop star (the aptly named) Poppy. Charlotte is first and foremost a literal mannequin, but that doesn’t mean she’s some nondescript prop. On the contrary, Charlotte started out by interviewing Poppy in the latter’s music videos, but her new mission is to destroy Poppy at all costs. There’s significant evidence to suggest Charlotte is a drug addict. She’s also a struggling single mom who seems equal parts obsessed and envious of Poppy and her fame.

What does that have to with the remix of "Before You I Didn't Exist"? Probably nothing but backstory and context are always important.

As for the track itself, the first thing about this remix that sticks out is the additional pop and pulse the lite house percussions which kickoff the song brings. The bland synthesized voice (A Charlotte staple) saying “Oh Hello there. This is a Charlotte Remix” sets a monochromatic tone to the proceedings which ties the entire thing together. The added charge from the drums and beats propels the song forward, giving it a drive and purpose not found in the original.

The added oomph has me listening to this track on repeat. It fits perfectly into this summer-fall buffer zone we all currently exist in. Throw some headphones on and prepare yourself for some electro pop bliss.

FRND - BEFORE YOU I DIDN’T EXIST (CHARLOTTE THE MANNEQUIN REMIX)

Ya know we had to do it to ‘em, so here’s the original for comparison's sake.

FRND - BEFORE U I DIDN'T EXIST

Charlotte is sure to get a multitude of chances to off Poppy in the coming months as Am I a Girl?, the second studio record from Poppy, is due out on Halloween of this year. She’ll be touring Canada, Europe, and the United States up until and through her album release. All the info your heart could desire about said tour can be found here.

Frequent readers will know that the early returns on Am I A Girl? are extraordinarily promising.

FRND is the brainchild of Los Angeles-based musician Andrew Goldstein. Since releasing his debut EP In Your Dreams, Goldstein has put out progressive stream of solid singles. He’s an up and coming artists worth keeping an eye on.

Calvin Paradise is not any one thing. The half-hearted vagabond and forgetful luddite currently resides in Los Angeles and how he spends his time is none of your damned business.