Alchimy - Chercheur d’ Or

​Alchimy

​Chercheur d’ Or
self-released; 2016

4.0 out of 5

By Matt Jensen

Apparently around twenty-one percent of people in Switzerland speak French. Being an egocentric American I was completely ignorant to this fact but now have a tidbit of useless knowledge I can spout out during a waning dinner conversation. Included within this demographic are the exceptional band Alchimy comprised of founding members Celine (vocals), Nathalie (vocals) and Loane (guitar/vocals).  The band recently released Chercheur d’ Or which is an electric LP with some truly exceptional songs.

The opening title track is one of the best. It has a Brazilian and Portuguese vibe with some notable flamenco sounding guitar work. It may remind you of the group Madredeus in a number of ways. This is so smooth that it’s sensual. I mean come on what woman wouldn't melt. 

The next song “Un Brin de Passion” has a very clear change of pace. It veers towards a big band type sound, if flashy and very upbeat. I liked it but did feel a sudden transition. The band has more success with the more melancholy and melodic  “Bord a Bord.” It slowly builds ever so slightly with vocal harmonies.

I’m not sure what they were saying on “Je te demande Pardon” but it seemed pretty delightful and pleasant. I imagine it had some thing to do with cupcakes or pastries in general. If anyone speaks French let me know if this song is about cupcakes. 

“Limonade” is a lounge-y jam perfect for a jazz bar that serves overpriced cocktails where the patrons want to let loose. Luckily, I made my own cocktails while appreciating this celebratory song. “Behind” starts off sounding like a country song before the vocals come in while “Still Here For You” contains some slight nostalgia and felt emotional. I loved the strings on this song. 

​This album is every so slightly scattered but ultimately innocuous because the music is fantastic. It’s really quite a debut from a demographic of people I never knew existed until today. 

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