Oddleaf, a French band, has spent the last four years crafting their premier opus. A beautifully written and performed album with a distinctly nostalgic feel, enhanced by the rich vintage instruments used. The discerning listener will detect both Hammond organ and mellotron, which sound glorious, evoking that sense of nostalgia whilst retaining a contemporary vibe.
Formed in 2020 by Carina Taurer and flautist Mathieu Rossi. Keyboardist Carina is the principal composer, drawing influences from Camel, Renaissance, Yes, Gentle Giant, King Crimson, with hints of Genesis, Van der Graaf Generator, and Tangerine Dream. Her keyboards also reminded me of early Genesis as well as some of Pat Sanders’ Drifting Sun pieces.
Following the departure of vocalist Olivier Marcaud, in 2023, the vocal duties fell to Adeline Gauter who delivers her lines with aplomb, and reminiscent of Magenta’s Christina Booth, which is high praise. The rhythm is provided by Clément Curaudeau on drums and Olivier Orlando on bass and guitar, their chops suggest a background in jazz.
Opener The Eternal Tree showcases Oddleaf’s environmental credentials, with autumnal piano and whale song, it serves as a gentle introduction, although it doesn’t really offer much of a clue as to what’s coming next. The Eternal Tree flourishes into Life, and Life expands and expounds as the Hammond and mellotron are introduced, creating a joyful sound. The mellotron, in particular, offers a unique string effect that modern instruments simply can’t replicate.
Life also is our introduction to Oddleaf’s principal vocalist, Adeline Gauter, another name to add to the lengthy list of female talents that progressive rock has blessed us with. Her delightful voice brings life to the poetic lyrics. At eleven and a half minutes, Life is a well-crafted composition, with no wasted moments. Mathieu Rossi flute, whether bucolic or rocking adds a pleasant natural air to proceedings. In contrast Ethereal Melodies rises from the dying embers of Life like a new-born Phoenix, with a seamless transition. The sound is softer, still familial of old but never feels outdated; it’s warm and uplifting. Tinkling piano and weaving flute form the basis for this folk-prog ballad, topped by a ripping guitar solo over a bed of lush harmonies.
Back In Time touches once again on nostalgia, with epic Hammond and jazz flute. It reminds me, in parts, of Van der Graaf Generator: big, bold, and discordant. Clocking in at over fourteen minutes the vocals and narration set the scene – written during the Covid period, the broad outline is of a woman reflecting on her youthful days and the joys of family life, taken away in that period. The eloquence in a non-native language is impressive. Equally impressive are the extended instrumental breaks throughout.
At just around a minute Prelude serves as a suitable lead into the final epic, Co-Existence – Part 1. This instrumental allows every musician to shine, with keyboard, guitar and bass solos, accompanied by the impressive drumming from Clément Curaudeau. This is an eleven-minute musical extravaganza to delight any prog fan.
Wrapping things up. For convenience, I’ve mostly listened to this album through headphones (Beats Studio 2), but I recommend playing it through speakers with good stereo separation for the full experience. Played through a system with a subwoofer, the music takes on even greater qualities.
As a debut album, this is phenomenal, and I hope it heralds great things to come and while the is no denying the album nods to the ’70s, it is very much music for today and has become one of my highlights of 2024. So, why haven’t you bought this album yet? My review and enthusiasm for Oddleaf should be enough to convince you, surely 😉
TRACK LISTING
01. The Eternal Tree (2:06)
02. Life (11:31)
03. Ethereal Melodies (7:55)
04. Back In Time (14:24)
05. Prelude (1:04)
06. Coexistence – Part I (11:20)
Total Time – 48:20
MUSICIANS
Carina Taurer – Keys, Backing Vocals
Adeline Gurtner – Lead Vocals
Mathieu Rossi – Flute, e-Flute, Backing Vocals
Olivier Orlando – Bass, Guitar, Backing Vocals
Clément Curaudeau – Drums
ADDITIONAL INFO
Record Label: Independent
Country of Origin: France
Date of Release: 11th October 2024
LINKS
Oddleaf – Website | Facebook | Bandcamp | YouTube | Instagram
