Revolver
Music for a While
(Astralwerks)
Revolver is a French rock trio a lot like Phoenix: Parisian sophisti-pop purveyors who meld classic rock with glossy electro-tinged production. But while Phoenix are all about re-synthesized ‘80s sounds, Revolver recall the warm solar grooves of the ‘60s (their name is a Beatles homage). Their debut album, Music for a While sounds like a long-lost AM pop station, spinning everything from Simon and Garfunkel's brokenhearted folk tales to the danceable retro rock of the Beach Boys. “Leave Me Alone” and “Back to You” are bittersweet love ballads that pine over acoustic guitars, cellos, tambourines, and harmonizing vocals. “Balulalow” and “Get Around Town” are soiree rock gems, polished with breezy electric guitars, sock-hop percussion, and champagne pianos. The album is full of antique melodies you can file under easy listening, so it’s no wonder Music for a While is already certified gold in France with a nomination for Best Debut Album at France's music awards. And even though the pristine production is often exceedingly rich (maybe a little too sweet for constant consumption), it’s exactly what you love to crave from music like this. —Keith Gribbins
Follow us on Twitter: @clescenemusic
