Feu Follet – IV (Album – Blackjack Illuminist Records)

Genre/Influences: Wave-Pop, Cinematic.
Format: Digital, CD.
Background/Info: French musician Alban Blaising is back on track unleashing the fourth full length of his sonic alter-ego Feu Follet. Just like the previous album, he asked guest singers to join in. Isabelle B. Baumann, Alexander Donat and Pat Aubier were the guests. Blackjack Illuminist Records released “IV” on CD, cassette and as download.
Content: Feu Follet moves on exploring the influential path of 80s Wave-Pop. The songs have been composed by guitar playing and electronics. Together with the vocals it often creates an evasive sensation reminding me of Cinematic music.
+ + + : The album is an easy listening experience, which sounds as an evasive retro-like Wave-Pop experience. The songs “The Pillar” featuring Pat Aubier and “Under The Trees” featuring Isabelle B. Baumann both are my favorites. “The Pillar” definitely sounds like the best cut I’ve heard from this project. It has a great elevating effect.
– – – : Despite of the artist’s efforts and the good singers the album is missing a true climax.
Conclusion: “IV” takes me away for an entertaining trip, but is definitely not a must have.
Best songs: “The Pillar”, “Under The Trees”.
Rate: 6½.
Artist: www.facebook.com/FeuFollet54
Label: www.facebook.com/Blackjack.Illuminist
About Feu Follet
Feu Follet is the sonic alter-ego of French musician Alban Blaising, based in Nancy. Second album “La Forêt Oubliée” was released as an audio/visual experience in 2020. Third album “Beneath the Earth” followed on Blackjack Illuminist Records in 2021, released with an accompanying comic book that served as a prequel to “La Forêt Oubliée”. Unlike the earlier concept releases, fourth album “IV” was recorded without an overarching narrative, with guest vocal contributions from Isabelle B. Baumann, Alexander Donat and Pat Aubier.
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I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.

