Gaspard Auge - Escapades

 

Another Justice album is on the way, supposedly. As we anticipate the release of Justice's next record, Gaspard Auge, one half of the French electronic music duo, has provided a debuting solo project of his own, 'Escapades.' So, how does Gaspard here fare on his own?

Well, following a short, sweet synthy intro in 'Welcome,' Gaspard dazzles with 'Force Majeure.' It is understandable why BBC had chosen this track as their theme song for the Euros 2020. The glistening synthesizers and thumping percussion make for a pleasingly atmospheric instrumental, fitting for a big sporting event such as the Euros. Another cut, 'Hey!', could have been a riveting alternative for a Euros theme. The uplifting choir sample, revving strings section, and rhythmic drums make 'Hey!' a fitting anthem for bright lights at European nights.

Following 'Force Majeure', the synth waves are beaming, and the keyboard hooks are a satisfying earworm in 'Rocambole', which also includes an adrenaline-pumping outro. Then, things turn enjoyably eerie in 'Europa', as Gaspard delivers a force of spiralling synths, hair-raising piano keys, and booming percussion. Also, the vocal sample within the track's latter half provides a nice ominous touch.

After a sadly passive 'Pentacle'  and the mentioned beforehand 'Hey!', Gaspard delivers the captivatingly cute 'Captain.' 'Captain' consists of a radiant mixture of summery synth patterns, blissful kid choir vocals and groovy bassline. 'Lacrimosa', while a somewhat intriguing tune at first, does unfortunately drag. The throbbing drums, trippy synths and pleasant woodwinds made a satisfying impression. However, the track did have an odd moment of silence in its latter half. Also, the outro that followed that moment of silence felt unnecessary.

Reaching close to the album's end, 'Casablanca' is Gaspard's more immaculate track on the record, Especially through the track's crystalline production filled with synths, sampled vocals and flute. Sadly, the album does conclude disappointedly with 'Reverie.' The cut was promising with its murky atmosphere. However, it does end in an awkward abrupt manner.

Gaspard's debuting piece 'Escapades' is a solid effort. For a good part of the record, the Frenchman delivers an array of atmospheric anthems. However, the album does suffer from some inconsistencies, such as some tracks only evoking passive feelings and awkward and abrupt pauses and endings. 

Best Track(s): Force Majeure, Hey!, Captain. 

7/10.