Monday 11 May 2009

Nouvelle Vague: 'Nouvelle Vague' and 'Bande A Part'



The idea of post-punk classics performed in traditional Brazilian bossa nova/lounge style appears, at first look, a joke at best. This is reinforced by the fact that every classic appears to have been interpreted into this style with wrist-slitting effects! However, Nouvelle Vague, transform these songs transcending any ironic detachment to create something altogether different. These two albums can certainly be viewed as part A and B of one album. They are both well executed, sophisticated, acoustic chansons with the flowery acoustic arrangements and French angelic vocals mesh well with the Latin rhythms. Admittedly, some would never want to hear these classic songs tampered with and I would usually be a strong advocate from this corner. Indeed, a number of songs on here miss the mark entirely. However, songs such as Don’t go are reworked into something unrecognizable, whereas ‘Love Will Tear Us Apart’ and ‘Blue Monday’ are truly excellent interpretations. Highly recommended.

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