Zombie Zombie
Funk Kraut
Some record crates deserve a sub-category called "play it again, Sam." Casablanca-level comfort tracks that spin on the turntables without a push. 'Funk Kraut,' Zombie Zombie's second LP on Born Bad, is of this kind. This well-proportioned classic is a fine example of the style the trio has been embodying: instrumental music played live, for synths and drums. The album kicks off with 'No Cruise Control,' a big bad sedan that effortlessly eats up the distance at 120 BPM. Kraut as can be, with a twist. And as far as funk goes, it's not Bootsy Collins, but there's a whiff. Space is structured by synth patterns, for optimized drumming : forward, straight and fluid, top-notch suspension (Cosmic Neman/Dr Schönberg take care of business on drums). They treat themselves to a diversion via Darmstadt to take some musique concrete on board : mechanical birds chirp, the odd atonal piano here and there. Nerds will appreciate liner notes detailing the equipment used: about twenty synths and they still describe it as minimal. This was a quick affair, recorded by Laurent Deboisgisson in the studio of Cheveu's singer. A pretty straightforward job, and a far cry from their previous concept album. Let us praise Krikor Kouchian's mix: drums have been resampled with some restraint, and that LinnDrum kick lightens up the overall mix. It marks a notable evolution in the band's sound, and adds some dynamic. The cover, designed by Dddixie, sets the tone with its 'Motorik Vibes & Stereo Grooves' sticker. Motorik, absolutely, it's Autobahn time for 45mn. And when it comes to stereo grooving, the acoustic image is as wide as the canyons of Mars.