François & the Atlas Mountains
Banane Bleue
Release Date: Feb 26, 2021
Genre(s): Pop/Rock, Alternative/Indie Rock, Indie Pop, French Pop
Record label: Domino
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Album Review: Banane Bleue by François & the Atlas Mountains
Great, Based on 2 Critics
Based on rating 4
Frànçois & The Atlas Mountains went political on 2017's Solide Mirage, describing it as "a response to recent world affairs". However, their sixth release Banane Bleue (translated as, yes, Blue Banana) brings back the smooth-edged pop of their back catalogue, all the while becoming more contemplative and pleasant to listen to. Frànçois' new release has a warm and welcoming feel, which stays throughout the record.
Based on rating 3.5/5
Taking its title from a theory stating that the boundaries of Europe's cities have blurred to form a single megapolis, ‘Banane Bleue’ draws on many layers of engagement. The connection with places is particularly vivid, influenced by Fràncois living in multiple cities during the writing of the record. The notion of travelling within a location for example is evoked on the Ultravox-esque 'Dans Un Taxi', while the "city made of books" and indoor eating mentioned on 'Gold & Lips' brings to mind the streets and suburbs the blue banana theory effects.
'Banane Bleue'
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