Combining Names and Sounds: Elsiane
By Ryland on April 28, 2009 in library
The duo, Elsieanne Caplette and Stephane Sotto, came together in early 2000 to form Elsiane, a combination of the pair’s names. Almost eight years later they’ve released their debut album, Hybrid, a synergistic effort that is reflected in more than their group’s name. Throughout the album one takes notice of the play between Caplette’s eerie vocals and Sotto’s heavy handed beats. Indeed the duo seem to situate themselves in a long tradition of trip-hop bands. Listening to the album instantly calls to mind such bands and artists as Massive Attack, Portishead, and Imogen Heap.
The album seems to flow easily from one song to the next, but listening to it one is often surprised by the new directions in which Caplette seems to be able to take her voice. With the exception of the instrumental track, Assemblage Point, the songs seem to be almost entirely driven by Caplette’s vocals, which push the melody to an important but secondary place, while Sotto’s drums provide the music with structure.
The entire album is quite good and I would recommend listening to it in one sitting but barring that I would recommend the following three tracks. . Perhaps the eeriest track off the album, Paranoia, is marked by a death march beat and the melodic plucking of violin strings. My personal favorite off the album, Hybrid, provides a fitting conclusion and leaves the listener wanting more.
Elsiane - Morphing
Elsiane - Paranoia
Elsiane - Hybrid
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