We can finally stop pining. The French post-punk band is back with its second album, just a decade after a remarkable first EP, Appointment. Between the two, the minialbum Distance released in 2016, then the album Superior State in 2018, all of excellent quality. Now that everyone’s memory is refreshed, let’s get down to business: Downcast is a summary of the darker side of what Francis Mallari, Elliot Berthault, Maxime Gendre and Simon Dubourg do. The whole thing is therefore a succession of pieces which abandon this little new wave side for sounds and rhythm that are undoubtedly more grunge and garage than what Rendez-vous had accustomed us to. The prime of life, perhaps? Whatever the case, the audacity and ardor of the French have not aged a bit. We could also say that Sheer, Stay a Rat Or Top Range DNA are to be listened to urgently, but the experience would be incomplete without the rest…
Rendez-vous will be in concert at L’Esco on October 26.
Downcast
★★★★
Showcase
Appointment, Artefact / Wedge
To watch on video