French II, a Dutch producer, is back with the breakbeat-infused ‘CD Is Dead,’ a four-track EP heavily inspired by the UK. The EP delves into the worlds of breakbeat, two-step, and garage, which are all influenced by electronic sounds. It also has the dark and gritty air of his current residence in Berlin, showcasing how his two musical worlds collide.
While the EP’s aesthetic is undeniably gloomy and chilly, the artist placed a strong emphasis on rhythm and how his music affects the dancefloor. This record has it all, from the 140 bpm scorching single ‘Frequency’ – the artist’s first 4/4 lead track – to the emotionally laden ‘Still Here.’
French II burst into the dance scene with the hard-hitting EPs ‘Hytune’ and ‘Control’ two years ago. Both releases received positive feedback from industry heavyweights such as Call Super, Carista, Martyn, Madam X, and Or:La. Now, with ‘CD Is Dead,’ he makes his comeback to Intercept Records, presenting a fresh sound.
‘CD Is Dead,’ headquartered in Berlin, solidifies French II’s status as a real developer and initiator of bass-heavy and melancholy dance sounds. However, while the EP’s aesthetic is undeniably gloomy and frigid, the artist placed a strong emphasis on rhythm and how his music influences the dancefloor. The resulting result is addicting, and the title tune demonstrates how hypnotic it can be. Its drive is relentless, with its wobbling bassline and in-your-face grime-esque lyrics, and it brilliantly sets the tone for the remainder of the record.
The emotionally powerful ‘Still Here,’ which presents a variety of ambient sounds and appealing vocals that softly brings the EP to a conclusion, rounds up the EP’s trip.
‘CD Is Dead’ sets the tone for what French II has in store for the following year. It’s a release that’s already received airplay on radio and live-streaming sites, including HR, Boiler Room, Rinse fm, and NTS radio. The artist has proven to be a star in the music industry, and he’s already released four intriguing tunes that appear destined to reach a broader audience.
Images by Simone Michielsen