Now having passed its 25th Anniversary, and as it gets another round of applause, ‘Moon Safari’ remains an absolute gem.
It’s inherently difficult to define, as it’s not 100% psychedelic nor is it lounge or rock; the record floats somewhere in between as it remains incredibly precise but always drifting between sounds and ideas.
This is the defining record from Air, and it has set the tone for their career, as it was their debut that launched them to the alternative music royalty they’ve occupied since its release.
The album is best known for ‘Sexy Boy’ as it best shows the band's ability to use synths and textures in a pop/electronica sensibility, but this record is loaded with stellar tracks. ‘La femme d’argent’ synchronises precision percussion with hypnotic bass for a mesmerising opening.
Otherwise, there are the two Beth Hirsch tracks that showcase some serious vocal chops, which enthral, adding an ethereal layer to the band's suave aesthetics. Finally, ‘New Star in the Sky’ sounds like a love child between ‘The Dark Side of the Moon’ and ‘Low’.
It’s all come full circle now, courtesy of that Charli XCX duet which came seemingly out of nowhere. But if it means more people listen to these records, then it’s a win for everyone.
'Moon Safari' is available in the Store now.