Birthmark is the moniker of Nate Kinsella's solo efforts. The multi-instrumentalist performs all instruments on his debut album The Layer including drums, cello, piano, clarinet, guitar, bass, mandolin, little hand percussion thingies, blah blah blah... ect. The Layer' represents an effort that began over eight years ago with the song 'Flightless Bird,' which was originally written for a friend's unfinished film project. Over time, the songs transitioned through amorphous forms until their ideal structures were achieved, further revealing 'The Layer' to be a product of discreet process. The songs are beautiful - not necessarily where Decembers Architects left off - but a new realization for Nate- the experimental nature of the album creates an atmosphere that is intimate and appealing - Although compared to his cousins - The Layer stands out as its own entity - avoiding the shadows of Mike and Tim.