Reviews

Faux Départ Si Tu Disparais EP

FAUX DÉPART first hit my radar with their killer 2021 album Vie Ordinaire. With this latest EP, their style has evolved in a way that moves their core resonance away from RAMONES-inspired three-chord punk and towards punky power pop like that of the POINTED STICKS. That may be too reductive because FAUX DÉPART is not reliant on formula, and has a distinctive knack for crafting deceptively sophisticated tunes. Artful and catchy, the Lyon trio brings four memorable cuts to the table that just get sweeter with each listen. Rolling back the overdrive gives the guitar a sharper edge that begs for a DOGS comparison. This is a perfect companion piece to the ALVILDA album that came out recently, which is to say that it’s a great moment for anyone with a hankering for infectious French power pop.