CD review: Absynthe Minded - "As It Ever Was"

There’s a playful minimalistic piano and a clear voice, more distinct and precise than ever, singing “space is where we belong”. The opening song confirms that Absynthe Minded are still growing after five albums, updating their trademarkjazzy and gypsy palette.

The Ghent fivesome can sound melancholic, light-hearted and haunting all at once, but here the melodies come with a wider perspective on life, as demonstrated on Picture in a Frame and Get Around. Frontman Bert Ostyn, now a father, sings with empathy, sounding more concerned. Time and how we spend it is a major theme on these 12 songs, all recorded in Paris with Adam Samuels, a studio buddy of Daniel Lanois and John Frusciante.

(Pias)

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