ÉQUIVOQUES VOL. 1

After two years of hard work, Barrdo offers us an impressive album. A double album, in fact. The two volumes of "Équivoques" (i.e. "ambiguous") are quite different. Volume 1 has a lighter and more approachable sound flirting with folk-rock.

The first piece starts the album in an original way. "Au creux de mon âme" (3/5) is reminiscent of old PINK FLOYD (San Tropez) with a short bridge à la KING CRIMSON. We also notice the unusual arrangements with flute and brass. The finale, however, is a bit long.

"J'aimerais tellement ça" (4/5) hypnotizes us with a repetitive guitar/bass riff. Then horns are added in the second verse. The last part is melodic and quite moving. Strings make their first appearance. An amusing coda at the very end.

Then we have "C'que tu voulais" (5/5), an extraordinary composition, both sophisticated and beautiful. I finally figured out that the main riff is in 15/16, which is uncommon in popular (even progressive) music. The arrangements are great, the LUNES string quartet plays perfectly. The RADIOHEAD-like bridge is relevant. The whole thing ends in an apotheosis where everything intertwines: rock instruments, flute, brass, strings. It's wonderful.

"Quelque chose de beau" (4/5) could have been an ordinary blues, but the addition of strings and horns makes it majestic. Once again, we realize that Pierre Alexandre has a natural talent for composition, no matter what the musical genre.

My interest drops a notch with "Jamais" (3/5), a song that reminds me of Wish You Were Here by PINK FLOYD. Later in October 2022, Barrdo released "Jamais (Prise 2)", re-arranged and re-recorded with a country feel. Surprisingly, I like this new version a little better.

"Combien" (4/5) is clearly the most dramatic (and progressive) song on this volume 1. A real crescendo of emotions. Pierre Alexandre even delivers a heartbreaking cry at the end.

"Cette nuit" (4/5) is melancholic. Although it is the finale, it could also be considered as a transition to the darker volume 2.

Upon first listen, this album seems accessible, yet we eventually discover that compositions and lyrics both have a beautiful depth. The production is impeccable, we can hear each instrument well and besides, all musicians involved are excellent. What more could we ask for?

One can only wonder why Barrdo offers us this digital album for free! It goes without saying that any financial contribution will be appreciated by the band, especially when you consider all the work behind this release. About this, there are several mini-documentaries (Making of Équivoques) available on Youtube.

By the way, this is my first review ever!