The French musical pair PAPOOZ unveils their 11-track masterpiece, RESONATE, under the Half Awake Records label. The album, a collaborative effort with co-producer and mixer Patrick Wimberly (known for his work with Chairlift, MGMT, Lil Yachty, Solange, Blood Orange, etc.), and co-writer Jesse Harris, promises an eclectic mix of soundscapes. The disco and funk influences on this album make for an incredibly fun listening experience.
In conjunction with the album, they’ve also released an engaging short film titled “IT HURTS ME,” visually captured by artist and director Moodoïd, showcasing the vibrant streets of New York’s SoHo and the iconic Central Park.
Check out “IT HURTS ME” below:
Ulysse Cottin and Armand Penicaut, the creative minds behind PAPOOZ, shared some insights into the creation of RESONATE: “The journey of writing and recording took us from New York to Paris, alongside American songwriter/producer Jesse Harris. The process was a whirlwind of creativity, with songs coming to life daily over a few intense weeks. With RESONATE, we aimed to delve into the concept of resonance in music, inspired by Hartmut Rosa’s philosophical application of the term as a metaphor for living harmoniously within the chaos of modern life. This theme resonated through our lyrics and compositions, capturing the essence of our personal and professional dynamics.
The final touches were added with the genius of Patrick Wimberley in his Greenpoint studio, whose pop mastery was a perfect match for our vision. The experience was a blend of hard work and exhilaration, marked by minimal sleep, lively parties, exquisite meals, musical innovation, and memorable encounters.”
PAPOOZ stands out with their unique blend of sway pop and undeniable groove, drawing comparisons to fellow French acts like Phoenix and L’Impératrice. With two successful American tours under their belt, playing sold-out shows at venues like LA’s The Lodgeroom and NY’s Elsewhere, the quintet is gearing up to mesmerize audiences once more. Their music, a fusion of tropical pop and wild bossa nova, pays homage to the American Seventies style, showcasing Ulysse and Armand’s harmonious partnership. Effortlessly blending inspiration and casual expertise, the duo combats the prevailing gloom with their vibrant tracks.