We had the distinct pleasure of reviewing Julien Delaye‘s very first release ‘Ancient Monster‘ back in 2022. It was an outstandingly dark and intriguing five-track EP that really resonated around these parts. Then, as so often is the case, time got away from us, and we unintentionally forgot to check in with the French singer/songwriter.
Luckily, earlier this month, Julien knocked on our doors (not literally) and delivered ‘Open Air Desertlike Discotheque’, his debut full-length album. Ah…it’s so good to hear his gritty and intoxicating sound again!
‘Directions’ is a hypnotising opener that subtly showcases Delaye’s often unnoticed guitar-playing expertise, before the entrancing and eerie sounds of ‘Voices in My Head’ follows.
‘Bitterness’ is a sonic journey through genres and styles that simply has to be heard to be appreciated, while ‘The Convoy’ draws you in with an emotional core, wrapping you up in its poignant and haunting melody.
Other favourites include ‘The Perfect Clown’, ‘A Rendez-Vous’, and the stunning closer ‘Pictures’. Truthfully, however, ‘Open Air Desertlike Discotheque’ is a record that should be savoured in its entirety. A magical offering from a highly gifted artist!
Serious album alert! Enjoy ‘Open Air Desertlike Discotheque’ on Spotify now:
