Chicago-based synth-pop trio French Inhaler captivate on new single “PLASTIC OCEAN.” Blending post-punk rhythms and electronic textures, the single addresses themes of environmental decline through a retro-friendly, 1980s new wave lens. The group features Ashvin Prakash, Adam O’Leary, and Zane Chao.
Nostalgic synth tones, a driving percussive pulse, and a sturdy post-punk bass line open “PLASTIC OCEAN” with alluring energy. “I was waking up in plastic,” the lead intones thereafter, complemented by a jangly guitar tone that, alongside the playful synths and enveloping rhythm section, evokes the danceable post-punk of New Order. The singing lends an ethereal, introspective quality as the synth line frolics and the guitar work jangles, intertwining just past the one-minute turn as the delivery jumps into a more expressive vibrancy.
An effervescent synth-laden layering takes hold during the “dressed up” hook, seamlessly fitting between verses where the lead exudes a contemplative entrancement. “In my sleep, I hear the beat,” the phrasing energizes during a delightful bridge, gearing up into another glistening synth envelopment. “I’m in your dreams,” the voice continues into another immersive section, driving into a wholly satisfying finale where multiple layers of bright synths coexist with post-punk rhythms. “PLASTIC OCEAN” is a thorough success from French Inhaler, capturing a declining world, both in regard to environmental suffering and societal disconnect, amidst an absorbing synth-pop sound.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
