Fránçois and The Atlas Mountains are a fascinating proposition. They are impossible to pigeon hole – always a good thing – and can appeal equally to lovers of good rhythm-based music and those who like to spread their wings and take on pop that sits left of centre. It may also seem an obvious thing to say, but don’t be put off if you’re not a French speaker, because the deep-set feeling in the music transcends any language barriers. The music is positive, often cheerful and frequently breezy, as in the riff that powers ‘Apocalypse à Ipsos’, while ‘Âpres Après’ catches the group’s slightly cheeky approach. Surprises are in store though, chief among them the punky ‘Bête Morcelée’, countered by the final reverie of ‘Rentes Écloses’ and the strong calypso flavours of ‘Jamais Deux Pareils’. There are loaded political messages in the lyrics but the music is equally strong on communication and is another strong addition to the band’s impressive canon with Domino.
Ben Hogwood
4 out of 5
FRANÇOIS & THE ATLAS MOUNTAINS – SOLIDE MIRAGE – DOMINO
