Frou Frou: Details
Frou Frou
Frou is the French term for the sound of rustling silk. The thought of the sound and texture is calming and warm, which is precisely the aim of the one-album band Frou Frou. Composed of Imogen Heap and Guy Sigsworth, Frou Frou has composed one of the best albums of the first decade of the 21st century: Details.
Like a cool breeze on a mountain, Heap’s guiding voice holds this masterpiece together. In the first song, “Let Go,” Heap explores “the beauty in the breakdown,” or surviving a breakup. It was a perfect selection for Zach Braff’s movie Garden State, which is how most Frou Frou fans discovered the then disbanded group. The electronica feel and Heap’s breathy lyrics sets the tone for the rest of the album. “Breathe In” and “It’s Good To Be In Love” are both much poppier, using Heap’s prerecorded voice to back herself up. Three tracks in, and the listener is already wrapped in silk sheets.
The following three songs are similar to Imogen Heap’s current works, so if “Goodnight and Go” and “Speeding Cars” are inspiring for the listener, they will undoubtedly enjoy the rest of the album. “Shh” adds an upbeat urgency that is necessary to make this album complete. Imogen whispers,
“Don’t make a sound/Shh and listen/Keep your head down/We’re not safe yet/Don’t make a sound/And be good for me/’Cause I know they’re waiting somewhere out here”
The redundant synths aren’t too much, which would be the downfall of the song. Heap and Sigsworth keep it simple, which is the marvel of Details. “Shh” ends simply; Heap repeats “I feel good all over.” It does feel good all over.
The final song on the album is “The Dumbing Down of Love” is a soft ballad that, though a tad long, was created to be swanlike and beautiful. With drawn out synths holding long chords like lazy waves caressing a beach, brushed drums, and a gentle drum background, Heap holds her head high and showcases her astounding voice.
Details, the sole album of Frou Frou, is a work of art. Both Heap and Sigsworth have not made any promises about remaining split up, so one can only hope that they get back together and produce an album of equal, and if possible, better quality.
Rating: A
Recommended Songs: Buy this album