Home > Album Review > Phédre “Phédre” | Daps

Phédre “Phédre” | Daps

July 3, 2012 Leave a comment Go to comments

Hailing from Canada, Phédre released their debut self-titled on “Daps” and I am in love.

While it is a definite low-fi album, other influences seem to take it on a distinct roller coaster hinting at 80’s L.A. punk, pop, swing, Bowie, The Cramps, Suicide and Psychic TV.

It’s got this sort of antique feel from a future world that is remarkable to hear. It hits on post punk, punk, electro, tropic electronics and some strange, hip hop segments that reel themselves into acid androgynous waves of beauty.

The beats are incredibly fat and well rounded. The vocals are haunting, distant but warm. The girl sounds so careless, free and hypnotic. The male voice is much more powerful hinting at Morrissey-like emotions that spill from his lower-level vocals.

It’s an incredibly melodic release that plays with tape reels, strange, kaleidoscope vocals and psychedelic textures. The melodies are infectious and well crafted. It makes me feel as if I am in the tropics, with a blue Mohawk, orange blazer, badass swim trunks and an exotic drink. But even if with its definite summer weird-o vibe, Phédre is still haunting and city friendly. The recording style reminds me of Ariel Pink and the execution of early Brian Eno.

 

Highlights are “Ode to Swinger” which really reels in the punk aspect I commented on. “In Decay” is their summer masterpiece accompanied by a glistening music video. “Aphrodite” plays on the creepiness of it all, getting lost in a giant cloud of marijuana smoke. “ Cold Sunday” plays with wacky hip-hop segments that remind me of Javelin. “Dreams” has a synth line that makes me feel like I am in Blue Velvet. “Love Ablaze” continues the Blue Velvet/ Twin Peaks vibe with is slow dance swing atmosphere. It’s a colorful, Lynchian sort of night with Phédre and I love it here. So far one of my favorite releases this year.

-Xavi Vil

Get album HERE!

 

About these ads
Categories: Album Review Tags: ,
  1. No comments yet.
  1. No trackbacks yet.
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 1,948 other followers

%d bloggers like this: