2017, Blair French came out of hibernation to release contrasting but similarly sun-kissed EPs on Rocksteady Disco and Claremont 56. Here, he returns to action with a scintillatingly sunny and sensual six-tracker on NuNorthern Soul that may well be his strongest release to date.
Given French’s chameleon-like musical history, that’s certainly a bold claim. Over the years, he’s been a member of a multitude of musical collectives – most notably Cosmic Handshakes and Formless Figures – established his own DIY record label (Fat Finger Cosmic) and released music that touches on a dizzying array of styles, from award-winning movie soundtracks and Afro-fired deep house, to skewed techno, blissful ambience and experimental hip-hop.
On Patio Pastel, French is in full on sand-between-the-toes Balearic mood, delivering a range of lucid, ear-pleasing compositions that will sashay their way into your consciousness. Contrast, for example, the drowsy organs, glistening pedal steel and undulating hand percussion of opener “Patio Pastel” with the Serge Gainsbourg style chanson-goes-tropical bliss of “La Playa De Tercipelo”, which features some deliciously breathy vocals from Stephanie Lyon.
Released on NuNorthern Soul, UK.
Includes unlimited streaming of Patio Pastels
via the free Bandcamp app, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more.
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A modern take on traditional Moldavian accordion music from Bliz Nochi and friends, with proceeds benefiting Nochi's father's healthcare. Bandcamp New & Notable May 26, 2020