Rosier Find Cohesion in Their Diverse Influences on 'Légèrement'

BY Sydney BrasilPublished Jan 26, 2021

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After releasing an EP in the fall of 2019, Rosier are back with their first full-length effort since changing their name. Formerly Les Poules à Colin, the band say that they wish to stay true to themselves as "romantic beings who complete one another through their differences." Légèrement embodies this by drawing together many diverse sounds into one cohesive vision.

Légèrement proudly displays Rosier's rich, varied influences by seamlessly weaving elements of jazz, pop and indie into a long-standing folk tradition. The quintet come from a well-established arts community, evident from the strong sense of musical identity that permeates the album. It's clear that Rosier are practiced, seasoned musicians.

While retaining its cultural richness, the album delivers a fresh sound that comes from Rosier's ability to pull together different styles, old and new, while maintaining the strength of their creative vision. Rosier are talented songwriters and arrangers, and Légèrement is exemplary of their combined musicality. The harmonies are dainty and ethereal without ever being lost on the listener. The production is also a strength; despite the lush and often complex arrangements, every element is clear and cohesive. The instrumentation is diverse, but every part falls right into place.

The elegant use of vintage synthesizers lends a dream pop sensibility to the album, while stringed instruments like acoustic guitars and banjos keep the arrangements grounded and organic. These juxtapositions work to create an atmosphere of nostalgic introspection, particularly when the synth break in "Dans Les Voyages" cradles you in its melancholia. The keys have this effect on most of the record, but single "Pontoise" is a notable exception. Stylistically different from the rest of the album, it's reminiscent of chamber pop, sounding like it could be on a Weyes Blood record. The guitars are melodic, and the omnichord accents them tastefully.

Légèrement is pensive and mellow, but swayed by a wave of optimism that carries it to many of its high points. Comforting and nostalgic, it retains a cloudless vision of what Rosier set out to do, and how well they're able to do it.
(Famgroup)

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