Genre/Influences: Experimental, abstract-ambient, IDM.

Background/Info: Mika Vainio is an artist who needs no further introduction and especially for all of those considering Pan Sonic as one of the pioneers in electro-minimalism and experimental music.

The Finish master joined hands together with Franck Vigroux. This French artist has been really prolific during the past years releasing multiple albums and mainly collaborations with other artists.

Content: “Peau Froide, Léger Soleil” invites the listener to embark on a mysterious sonic voyage where you’ll encounter multiple influences, which are moving from industrial, to ambient, to IDM.

The work is characterized by an impressive sound research injecting this fine and minimal touch to the composition.

If you’re familiar with the work of both artists you’ll notice the electronic experimentalism of the visionary Mika Vainio and the totally experimental approach of Franck Vigroux. This is the meeting between 2 sound universes, which is totally complementary, resulting in a fascinating experience featuring glasshouse atmospheres, fragmented and robotic vocal passages and other vibrating sonic waves.

+ + + : The experimental side of the work is fully accessible because of its diversity and eclecticism.

– – – : Despite of the creative spirit of this release, it’s not exactly the kind of work that you’ll keep in mind. “Peau Froide, Léger Soleil” brings no real innovative elements to the genre.

Conclusion: I’m not always convinced by occasional collaborations, but Vainio & Vigroux reveal a total fusion between their own sound universes and personal influences.

Best songs: “Le Crâne Tambour”, “Souffles”, “Mutant”.

Rate: (DP:7)DP.

Bands: www.mikavainio.com / www.facebook.com/Mika-Vainio-41778502407 / www.franckvigroux.com / www.facebook.com/franck-vigroux-57247872606

Label: www.cosmorhythmatic.com / www.facebook.com/cosmorhythmatic