One of New Jersey’s most beloved local outfits, Asbury Park’s Lowlight, have become the latest addition to long-running imprint Mint 400’s roster. Despite mostly sticking north of I-78, Mint 400 has added a few key acts from the shore area to its already-formidable lineup in recent years; most notably Yawn Mower, The Extensions, and Fake Pockets. And it’s no doubt that Lowlight, always insular and observant, took notice as each of those bands began issuing some of their best work.

Said Mint 400 founder Neil Sabatino of the union, “I’ve known Lowlight for many years, and whenever we find a hard-working band that puts the quality of their music first, we’re happy to have them.” Singer Renee Maskin elaborated, “We’ve been very lucky as a band to share a sense of community with the people we work and collaborate with, and Mint really embodies that spirit.”

With the signing also comes the premiere of the band’s latest single, “My Going Away Party,” as well as its fourth studio effort Strange Light. Keyboardist Dana Sellers revealed that the album sessions began back in March of 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic was starting: “We took to remote working naturally,” she said. “It required us to take on roles we’re not familiar with; Rey shared a 14+ minute song with us via Google Drive, Renee recorded from her apartment in Asbury, Colin began adding drums/percussion via cell phone recordings…it was odd. Something felt different and I think listeners will feel that, too.”

Despite the lack of togetherness that they’re typically known for, Lowlight still did what it always does: they found ways to elevate one another. “These relationships take work,” said guitarist/co-producer Derril Sellers. “Lowlight has been a really tight group because of the respect we have for each other as artists and friends.” Maskin added “Some of my favorite moments of making this record were when Derril thought he channeled too much David Gilmour or saying we should reserve some space for Colin to go wild. I think we work best when we give each other the creative space needed to shine as brightly as possible.”

And as for the future of Lowlight, Dana asserts “It feels like we’ve gained the experience of an entire lifetime. I think this is true of the music industry, as well – the old playbook has officially been burned! As long as you’re willing to remain open to experimentation, it’s an exciting time to be a band. We feel more motivated than ever!”

Copyright, You Don’t Know Jersey, LLC (2010-2022)

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