The ninth volume from Kitsuné Maison was released last month and expect more of the same dance friendly indie electro that has defined the French record and fashion label.
If Kitsuné hadn't already established itself as a genuine mark of quality for that sound, then it certainly has done now with it's latest collection which this time includes the exciting new Jamaica, as well as more established names such as Yuksek, Holy Ghost! and Silver Columns.
It's a very pleasing compilation. Kitsuné Maison 9 does everything the previous eight do and a little bit more. From start to finish, the abundance of summery synths and vocals are fresh and stimulating. Gamble & Burke's Let's Go Together dazzles and charms, the synths dreamy and delicious. Jamaica's tragically short entry is a display of turbo-charged indie that is so perfect in it's tempo and instrumental layering that it demonstrates why they are one the most exciting bands to emerge from France for quite some time.
The Crookers' contribution works surprisingly well. Don't be fooled by their notorious reputation for dirty electro/fidget, Cooler Couleur is far less abrasive and more friendly, with a divine Parisian flavour. But the real show-stealer is Vox Populi's Jupiter which is arguably the most danceable inclusion. Shimmering with sexy disco synths and elegant vocals, it's delightfully seasoned to fit the compilation and excite any dance floor.
From there on, Kitsuné Maison 9 only goes from strength to strength. Yuksek delivers what he does best with Supermenz, while Fenech-Soler's Stop and Stare is beautifully poppy combining sing-along perfection with breezy instrumentals.
Holy Ghost's Say My Name is smooth and quaint, with a charming piano lead while Feldberg's Dreamin' is gentle and uplifting which conjures images of those sunny summer days with someone special.
Kitsuné have once again successfully compiled something which showcases why France has become such an admirable force. The variation in styles is cleverly distributed throughout the compilation, while keeping the dance-orientated coherence of all Kitsuné releases. If there is one flaw to Kitsuné Maison 9, it is perhaps a little too amiable at times. Previous compilations have included the likes of Simian Mobile Disco, Siriusmo and AutoKratz to inject a little more genuine electronic fire, which is noticeably void this time. But this only makes it more palatable if anything. Like a chic Parisian café, Kitsune Maison 9 is undeniably appealing to begin with, and you'll probably like it enough to want to go back after.
Kitsuné Maison Compilation 9 is out now on CD and Digital release.
Vox Populi - Jupiter
