ALBUM REVIEW: Le Grand Voyage – Klone

Sometimes a band and label seem like a perfect match. This is the case for French art rock band KLONE who now call progressive label KScope home. KLONE are known for their brooding sound and progressive tendencies and KScope are famed for signing prog legends Steven Wilson, ANATHEMA and THE PINEAPPLE THIEF. So it is with high anticipation we have awaited the new KLONE record after their union with such a prestigious label. If you thought KLONE would evolve into a neo-prog outfit then you will be mistaken. KLONE have stayed true to their mellowing sound but now also exude a bit more life into each note, vocal hook and bass-line.

After two decades in the game it is no surprise KLONE explore philosophies of the mind and life’s journeys with this new album. Le Grand Voyage is a beautifully apt title for this metaphor which also nicely nods to the band’s French origins. Album opener Yonder is a perfect example of KLONE‘s stratospheric rock elevating above human conscience. Beginning with atmospheric thunder and Yann Ligner‘s distinct vocals telling us we have to leave, our minds are taken on a voyage of discovery and soul-searching. Piano notes are sprinkled over melancholic riffs, summoning an intense and moody timbre. When the vocals break through the heavy guitars, they create a stunning moment of clarity and optimism. Add in some strings and the ending of Yonder becomes a very soul-stirring affair.

After such a moving opener, second track Breach starts in a more laid back manner. The sultry bass and sparse guitars provide a chilled backing for Ligner‘s cutting vocals. The chorus has a lot of life and sounds especially satisfying after thoughtfully composed verses. Sealed also features delicate verses. With a retro air to it, the chorus is especially poignant and charming. The lyrics are uplifting but a shadow of sadness remains. This sorrow which seeps through Le Grand Voyage is subtle yet it still leaves an emotional impact.

The passionate and mournful Indelible is a heart-wrenching occurrence. This is one to get the emotions flowing. The beauty of metaphors is everyone can interpret them differently. This has always been the case with lyrics but somehow KLONE trigger a myriad of feelings, ensuring no two listeners have the an identical emotional response. The unexpected jazz ending confuses matters and turns these feelings on their head. Indelible is a bit of a ride, but thankfully not quite a mad roller-coaster.

Halfway through KLONE‘s Le Grand Voyage, they make a short pit stop with a spacey ditty called Keystone. With acoustic leanings, when the electrics kick in the song reaches dizzying new heights. The last minute delivers one of the most rewarding moments on the album with its uplifting instrumentation. After the stunning Keystone, it is almost a shame things dampen down with Hidden Passenger. The dark undertones leave an unsettling mark on the track. The song title suggests an inner conflict within yourself and this uncertainty is reflected in the mysterious air of Hidden Passenger.

A bold riff introduces The Great Oblivion. This different beginning paves the way for a track which breaks the mould of the album. It is a welcome change as its strong and confident execution stirs the soul. The solid rock stance makes the song memorable which makes up for the less memorable vocal hooks. This is followed by another weaker track titled Sad And Slow which unfortunately does what is says on the tin. If it wasn’t for the heavy and brooding instrumentation it would be an uninspiring track.

It takes a couple of goes before the album finale Silver Gate leaves an impact. The vocal melody is much of the same as we’ve already heard, but it is around the three and a half minute mark when it starts to soar. It is a combination of the uplifting riff and piano notes which create a passage so magnificent it ends Le Grand Voyage on a rousing high. It is a bit long-winded to get to this moment. KLONE have created another beautiful album but some soundscapes lack depth. The band might have to step up with the next album to avoid being surpassed by their younger contemporaries. Le Grand Voyage is enjoyable but loses momentum towards the end.

Rating: 7/10 

Le Grand Voyage is out now via KSCOPE. 

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