Papooz’s latest single “DON’T YOU THINK IT’D BE NICE?” from their upcoming album ‘RESONATE’ is a delightful mishmash of genres, showcasing the French duo’s talent for blending the nostalgic with the contemporary. Ulysse Cottin and Armand Penicaut, the faces behind Papooz, have taken a bold step by combining elements of jazz and country-western in a manner reminiscent of early 70s Paul McCartney. This track is an auditory feast, epitomizing their unique brand of sway pop and groove.
The song immediately strikes with its playful inventiveness. Starting with a banjo that sets a light-hearted tone, it rapidly escalates into an eclectic mix of sounds that seem to echo the duo’s creative process – fast-paced, intuitive, and full of life. French guitar wizard Jim Grandcamp’s country-western guitar solo is indeed the cherry on top, adding a layer of complexity and flair that elevates the track from mere pastiche to something genuinely innovative.
Lyrically, “DON’T YOU THINK IT’D BE NICE?” explores themes of daydream and escapism, inviting listeners into a whimsical world where Frank Sinatra might share a cup of Lapsang Souchong with Wings. This imagery is perfectly in line with Papooz’s philosophy of using music as a tool against the madness of modern life, as informed by the theories of Hartmut Rosa. It’s a reminder to find your rhythm and resonance in a world that often seems too fast and too loud.
Papooz’s mastery in creating an irrefutable groove is evident throughout the track. Their ability to fuse various elements into a cohesive whole while maintaining a sense of fun and spontaneity is commendable. The song feels like a sunny day by the Riviera, embodying both the beauty of the French landscape and the Americana spirit of the Seventies that Papooz so adores.
In essence, “DON’T YOU THINK IT’D BE NICE?” is more than just a song; it’s an experience. It encapsulates Papooz’s ethos of fighting ambient gloom with cheerful tunes. Their knack for melody that touches the heart, coupled with lyrics that are both finely crafted and whimsically delivered, makes this track a testament to their skill as musicians and storytellers.
As a single, it sets a high bar for the rest of the ‘RESONATE’ album, promising a journey through a spectrum of emotions – from laughter to tears, from melancholy to hedonism. Fans of Papooz and newcomers alike will find in “DON’T YOU THINK IT’D BE NICE?” a refreshing take on indie pop, a testament to the duo’s ability to blend the old with the new in a way that resonates with the very essence of life.