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This gripping, atmospheric Paris quartet claims to be inspired by UK Britpop and the NYC music scene, and this debut five-song EP backs up those assertions. They’re especially valid on the two hardest, fastest tracks here; the lashing, hurtling “Dive in the Ocean” immediately reminded me of Editors and Interpol, while the cinematic, vigorous closer “Poison” elicited Maxïmo Park. Each is anchored by the rapid-fire, battering rhythms of bassist Stephane Barrier and drummer Arthur Villanneau. As well, Heming Wave’s emotive, intense singer Jean-Pierre Bonnetier’s full-throated, fervent voice even hints of Editors’ Tom Smith and Maxïmo’s Paul Smith, further bolstering the similarities. However, as evidenced on the crunchy, alterna-rock opener “Rodeo,” Bonnetier’s molasses-thick brogue most recalls Billy Bragg, with traces of Big Country’s Stuart Adamson, Simple Minds’ Jim Kerr, and Whipping Boy’s Fearghal McKee. (Note: It’s a line in “Rodeo” which gives the EP its title, as he speculates – perhaps fruitlessly – whether a former girlfriend is still haunted by their “romance ghost.” In fact, fixating on faded/fading love affairs is a favorite lyrical subject of his!)
The two remaining slower-tempoed ballads give Bonnetier a perfect opportunity to stretch out his pliable, passionate pipes. The unhurried, shoegazing “Forever, Always” really evokes that abovementioned, little-known but terrific Irish band Whipping Boy – especially in Bonnetier’s and Maxime Auvity’s textured, twinkly guitars, and in Bonnetier’s aching, desirous wail, in which he once again yearns for a former flame. Finally, the glistening guitars and expansive synths that open the elevating, Celtic-tinged “Misty Life” conjure up The Chameleons (think the shimmering outro to their 1986 third LP Strange Times’ “Time/The End of Time”). On it, he frustratingly reproaches his lover Jane – the same woman mentioned in “Rodeo” – for her hot and cold, contradictory behavior. Yet despite his anguished, tense mood, his singing is uplifting and soulful throughout, and the song brims with beauty and splendor. It’s just one highlight of many on this marvelous EP.
