Naked Eyes Members, Gear & Sound

Naked Eyes is a British new wave and synthpop duo that emerged from the rich musical landscape of the early 1980s. Formed in 1981, the group consists of Pete Byrne (vocals) and Rob Fisher (keyboards). Their music is characterized by a blend of synth-driven melodies and polished pop production, making them a key part of the synthpop movement. Naked Eyes is best known for their chart-topping hits like "Always Something There to Remind Me" and "Promises, Promises," which became staples on both sides of the Atlantic and were heavily featured in the early days of MTV. The duo's sound encapsulates the essence of the new romantic and mellow gold genres, with a focus on catchy hooks and emotional depth.

The music of Naked Eyes is distinguished by its clean, melodic soundscapes and the intricate use of synthesizers that create a lush, atmospheric backdrop for Byrne's evocative vocals. The duo's sonic character is primarily shaped by Rob Fisher’s adept use of synthesizers such as the Roland D-50 and the Yamaha DX7, both of which are renowned for their ability to produce rich, warm tones and shimmering textures. These instruments allow for the creation of expansive, layered soundscapes that are both dreamy and rhythmic, capturing the essence of the new wave and synthpop genres. The use of the Linn Electronics LinnDrum drum machine adds a crisp, dynamic beat that complements the lush keyboard arrangements, giving Naked Eyes' music its distinctively polished and timeless appeal.