Fugu 1

Mehdi Zannad, a gifted French multi-instrumentalist, leads Fugu. Full of archetypal pop references and sweeping shots of symphonic wonder, Fugu 1 is a proverbial sound maze where each instrument deftly follows it’s predetermined path. The little untitled piece opening Fugu 1: a blend of piano intermingling with a series of minor and major chords, a cello, a trumpet, an organ, a splash of ocean for sonic background, a dusting of kitchen noises and, a dry, soft bass line weaving a spider web, sets the tone for the entire album.

Wander between vivid strings, woodwind, brass and choir; be guided by the harpsichords surrounding Mehdi Zannad's fragile voice, so shy that it blends in with the surrounding soundscapes. Yet allay your concerns of old fashioned retro worship. Fugu’s approach results in exuberant, melodic music as relevant as the air shimmering with Fugu’s music from your speakers to your ears. Even Stereolab’s Laetitia Sadier brings her talents to the party, lending her