Released on March 5, 2013, SUUNS‘s Images du Futur is undeniably one of my favorite albums from that year. If you haven’t experienced their live performance, you’re missing out big time!
Images du Futur, released under Secretly Canadian, is the second album from the Montreal band. I’ve been a big fan since their debut album Zeroes QC, and this follow-up does not disappoint.
This album diverges significantly from what I expected. There is less of Ben Shemie’s murmurs, and you can hear Liam and Joseph contributing more to the vocals on tracks like “Edie’s Dream” and “Mirror Mirror.”
SUUNS has often been compared to or criticized for sounding like Clinic. I can’t personally attest to this comparison, as I haven’t delved into Clinic’s music (any recommendations on where to start with them?).
In my view, Images du Futur moves away from those comparisons. The album kicks off with “Power of Two,” an angst-ridden, claustrophobic heavy rock track. Is that a cowbell being used? “2020” follows with a crazy psych-rock vibe and intense guitar riffs.
“Mirror Mirror” is my favorite track. Here’s a brief description:
“Mirror Mirror” departs from the frenzied earlier pace, decelerating to a lethargic drawl; the droning, almost tedious undertones are paid off with flurries of synthesized flute that announce the dawn of the dreamscape ahead.
“Edie’s Dream” lives up to its name, delivering an experimental, mellow, dream-like rock tune. It even has a certain sensuality to it. Though the lyrics go “Facing Visions,” I often find myself singing “They Say Visions.”
The album also features a new, shorter, and very synth-heavy version of “Bambi,” and closes with “Music Won’t Save You,” a haunting piece of social commentary.
Overall, I absolutely love Images du Futur. It’s different, smooth, and sexy, making for a captivating listening experience from start to finish.
Best tracks:
- Power of Ten
- 2020
- Mirror Mirror
- Edie’s Dream
- Sunspot
- Bambi
- Music Won’t Save You
Images Du Futur gets: 📷📷📷📷📷📷📷📷📷/10.
