Principia – Trouble in Mind
Parisian shoegaze and influences of the frenetic boppy sound a la Streolab appear on this brilliant new album by En Attendant Ana, Principia. What follows is a more mature sound, one that showcases their musicianship and beautiful melodies. The vocals are handled by principal songwriter Margaux Bouchaudon and echoed by multi-instrumentalist Camille Frechou’s trumpet & saxophone, in addition to her voice. What is expressed is balanced mathrock/ krautpop that keeps listeners engaged with catchy, hurried rhythms.
Dreamy pop explodes on track 6, “Wonder” – which features a slow intro that shifts into a bouncy bass line guiding the rest of the tune, with influences of Parquet Courts’ quick jangly guitars. The horns cradle the jumpy nature of track 2, “Ada, Mary, Diane,” and give it a very 80s vibe. “Same Old Story,” plays like a jazzy Stereolab tune, sax and synth flourishes jumping in and out of the funky pace. Shades of Alvvays on the title track and track #1,”Principia,” as Bouchaudon’s vocals flirt above the slower guitar. Their fizzy French pop makes for a pleasant listen that just brings a smile to your face.
Track listing –
1: Principia
2: Ada, Mary, Diane
3: Black Morning
4: To The Crush
5: Same Old Story
6: Wonder
7: Fools and Kings
8: The Cut Off
9: Anita
10: The Fears, The Urge
My faves are: 6**, 5**, 2**, 8**, 1*, and 9*. You can’t go wrong with this album. Delightful all around!
– (h)earwitness