M83 Stays Cinematic With New Album ‘Junk’

Jordan Bailey

The word “auteur” is usually reserved for filmmaking but in this case, it can be applied to Anthony Gonzalez, the author, as it were, behind the French dream-pop band M83. Gonzalez is not only the group founder but the soul behind it as well. As a lover of film, he’s crafted his previous albums, particularly his 2011 80’s-inspired “Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming” with his favorite film scores in mind. The hit tracks “Wait” and “Midnight City” we’re so cinematic that the director of the 2013 sci-fi film “Oblivion” asked Gonzalez to provide the score for his film. Since then, the Frenchman has been working on his latest release entitled “Junk.” Keeping with the cinematic nature of his prior albums, “Junk” continues to provide lush orchestral backgrounds amidst danceable beats, ethereal vocals and plenty of retro atmosphere to boot.

One particular track in the middle of the record carries on this point remarkably well. “Solitude” houses a gorgeous six-minute medley of strings and aching vocals replete with a keytar solo that conjures plenty of emotion. “Solitude” is somehow dark, yet simultaneously uplifting. Film score styling isn’t the only way “Junk” gets its point across. M83 has long been a proponent of indie-esque pop tracks that allow for plenty of ass-shaking. “Go!” features fellow French singer Mai Lan and is catchy as hell and backed by a horn section atop a bpm setup perfect for head bopping.

As an extra treat, there’s an insanely spacey guitar solo by legendary guitarist Steve Vai that’s nothing more than icing on this already delicious funk-infused cake. “Do It, Try It” continues with the danceability, though pushing forth with a more indie electronic approach. A bouncy piano with chopped-and-screwed vocals help an EDM-style buildup lead into an exciting hook. If there’s one thing Gonzalez knows, it’s how to craft an atmosphere, be it a dance club feel or otherworldly sci-fi landscape.

The album artwork features a (presumably) male and female puppet hanging out amongst the stars. As one of the album highlights, “Laser Gun” feels like a comfortable float through dark space, punctuated once again by a hook that’ll send listeners to another dimension. Mai Lan shows up on “Laser Gun” with cheerleader vocals reminiscent of fellow indie rock group Sleigh Bells.

M83 gained real success with “Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming” and tracks from “Junk” like “Road Blaster” and the aptly named “Sunday Night 1987” certainly evoke elements of that era of synth and overtly emotional ballads. New Wave music isn’t lost on “Junk” either. Look at the Beck collaboration entitled “Time Wind” for all things retro including that infamous gated reverb drum sound, cheesy synths and Talking Heads-style rhythm guitar. What’s important to remember with “Junk” is to take it as it is. It’s fun, it’s cheesy, it’s full of a sound not often heard. These are sounds Gonzalez has perfected to the point that it’s what he’s become known for. Bottom line, don’t be afraid to hop on an M83 rocket ship through time and space.

M83’s “Junk” is available for download on iTunes on April 8.