Released on the 21st of October 2013 here’s already the 15th edition of Kitsuné Maison, a compilation jam-packed with interesting fresh faces, irresistible choruses and inspired melodies... these are songs you’ll want to take care of for a long time.
You might have thought Kitsuné had found its balance as electro’s eclectic, reigning label, yet by casually launching the career of Two Door Cinema Club, one of the most endearing indie bands these last few years, the Franco-Japanese fox has proved the world it had become an important player in the music arena. In-house bands Is Tropical (second album I’m Leaving came out this summer) and Citizens! are nothing but other convincing examples, the wheel’s truly in motion.
But the Parisian imprint’s always been about origi- nality and quality, regularly outbidding its previous offerings. As it were Maison 15 – possibly even more than previous issues – firmly cements Kitsuné’s taste-maker reputation by embracing an exciting vi- sion of pop music in its ever-changing forms and delivers a solid collection of songs owed to a flock of ar- resting outfits and charismatic characters: Portland, Years & Years, Jonny Pierce, Techniques, The Swiss, Chela...
And that’s not all, the Maison artwork, famously including quirky illustrations of Kitsuné artists & friends’ faces, is getting a make over for its 15th edition!
1. Antimatter People - "Only Ark"
What about some psychedelic trip-pop to start this bracing Kitsuné Maison 15? "Only Ark" borrows Franz Schubert’s "Trio in E Flat" immortalised in cult Bowie/Deneuve vampire flick "The Hunger".
2. Go Wolf - "Voices"
"Voices" expresses a similar juvenile pop touch, which effortlessly hits the target. California’s dreaming without overdoing it.
3. Jake Bullit - "Moonshine"
Four boys from Birmingham, UK, fuse indie-pop heritage and clubbing infatuation. Hypnotic and raw "Moonshine" is electro-rock that funks too.
4. Jonny Pierce - "Home"
Having temporarily defected his band The Drums, singer/songwriter Jonny Pierce is one of those indie Gods bringing tormented sensibility to guitar-based music. His forthcoming solo album will see him exploring more electronic landscapes.
5. Chela - "Romanticise"
Mixing rap, rock and pop Chela, from Melbourne, has all to conquer teenagers’ hearts all around the world. This urban soulstress’ words have the weight of truth and are delivered with priceless conviction.
6. Horixon - "Lifeline" (feat Robert Owens)
At the core of dancefloor mechanics, house – like disco - remains unavoidable and as such will always be close to Kitsuné’s heart. Horixon have debauched one of its veterans, ex-Fingers, Inc.’s Robert Owens who decades on’s still spreading the word with ‘Tears’ in his voice.
7. Portland - "Deezy Daisy" (Oliver Nelson remix)
Poptastic, charming and damn catchy, "Deezy Daisy" is a winner. What would the world be like without tunes to sing under the shower and whistle on the way to the bus stop?
8. The Swiss - "Kiss to Kiss" (Amtrac remix)
From school gigs to touring the world, Australia’s funksters The Swiss have built a precious musicianship. In the hands of the US’ Amtrac, "Kiss to Kiss" becomes a relentless and jackin’ groover completed by a siren’s sensual wails.
9. Techniques - "Switch" (Adelaide remix)
Solemn and magnificent like all worthy New Order inheritors, Techniques AKA Mancunian James Mulholland gets remixed in sober yet poignant fashion by new Bristol’s production Adelaide.
10. Years & Years – "Traps"
Enchanting troubadours of the modern age, Years & Years rhyme magic with heroic. Exceptional melodies and a mesmerizing vocalist too.
11. Nonono - "Scared"
Fancy some loungey soul splashed with Swedish pop syrup? Catchy choruses experts - as Scandinavians do so well - Nonono are production duo Astma & Rocwell and sultry singer Stina Wappling, psychiatric nurse by day - a surprising balance that works.
12. Dillon Cooper - "State Of Elevation"
Another viral success story... Not that you would guess on coming across this Eminem fan’s flow, 20 year old rapper Dillon Cooper, born and raised in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, is also a trained guitarist/pianist.
13. Denitia & Sene – "Casanova"
These two only follow the rules they’ve set for themselves, compromising nothing that might contradict their signature panache. Their "Casanova" is a sweet, sweet ballad which dreams of the stars.
14. David Harks – "Sirens"
Although bluesy and soulful "Sirens" cuts across musical landscapes. This Brit sure captures a charmed sense of spirit and elation in his songs. Home studios never sounded so warm.
15. Kilo Kish – "Goldmine"
NY-based multi-tasker Lakisha Robinson is not only a textile designer and visual artist, she also sings and writes. Vibey and intimate "Goldmine" - produced by Starslinger - is ideal to skate to and fall in love during the Indian Summer.
(Bonus Track) The Wytches - "Summer Again"
A folky acoustic tune from Brighton’s The Wytches to finish this new Kitsuné Maison compilation and send the kids to sleep... or maybe not, as vocalist/ guitarist Kristian Bell’s demonic delivery takes an exalted turn and cast a spell of lyricism over this Maison’s vibrant selection.
