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Deux – Agglomerat 7.8

                Considering the large amount of dark 80s stuff being mined lately, I decided to shed some light on one of the original purveyors. After going through a number of bands who I thought might embody this sound, I heard their collections of songs in varying degrees of ‘meh’. Deux shot above all of them in terms of quality and chock full of cold pop hook goodness. 

                I remember reading a negative review of these guys which stated that they took themselves too seriously. “You simulated your love for me” from their song “Game and Performance” probably one of the most recognizable tracks on here. The negative review continued saying how Deux reminded him of what would’ve happened had “Sprocket” from SNL founded a band. Never mind they sing in French. Having Sprocket found a band would be awesome. From my point of view, I consider that a tremendous compliment. 

                Each song has been stripped down to the barest elements. A simple melody, an unambitious drum machine, bored lyrics mixed together into a perfectly chic bleak mood. Most of these songs hover around the 3 minute mark; those above still maintain enough interest. 

                The songs range widely in terms of fidelity: “Dance with Me” sounds like they recorded it in their basement. “Felicita” has the glossiest sheen of all of them, with vocals treated with effects. One of my picks from this would be the more energetic “Sex And Trouble” which is simply fantastic. A driving rhythm, worried vocals, and an infectious melody make this one a true winner for me.

                But those are by no means the only highlights. Most of the album is up to this same level of quality, and even with the down tempo quality, it sucks you in.