Review:

on 2012-10-27 Michael_Morrison Said:

Most would agree most popular artists out there have something truly special to give to their fans. This goes above the stereotypical attributes like raw talent, amazing songs, a nice voice, or even a marketable look, sound and image. There's something truly infectious at the core of these artists that simply makes us feel good when we listen to them. Whatever "it" is - they all seem to have "it".

Today I listened to the latest CD from France's own 2 piece band Secret Season who just released their second CD entitled: Paris Rain Dances in 2012. Secret Season is made up of Mark Moogalian (vocals, guitars, percussion, drums) and Isabelle Risacher (vocals, clavier, flute). Venturing to their website I get the impression these 2 artists are extremely determined, dedicated and passionate about the songwriting craft. From start to finish this latest CD from Secret Season delivers 12 amazing tracks and is a very entertaining musical experience overall. It's just a blast to listen to and has the classic eccentric Punk-Alternative Rock quality to it that will remind you of Velvet Underground, Sonic Youth, Pixies and John Cale. Any fans of any of these musical styles or bands will enjoy this latest release. It's clearly marketed for those who like a male-female vocal front and playing and lyrics that bend the mind into submission. I get the impression these 2 are letting it all hang out. In other words they hit the mark remarkably well by just being who they are musically and artistically. Favorite tracks include (In the Beginning), (Goin' Back Again) and (Over). All songs strike the perfect balance between rock, alternative rock and in trippy punk. The songwriting is impressive and digs a bit deeper than the next independent band. Within each one of these pieces Moogalian and Risacher capture something truly special as they bare their soul and delivers what I would call pure musical mojo. Paris Rain Dances offers much in the way of passion and compelling-thought provoking lyrical content. The playing from all members is spot on and just makes the whole CD even more enjoyable. The vocal abilities from both are amazing. The overall vibe of the production is very defiant, rebellious and a bit comical with pockets of hope shining through.

I see Secret Season as a diamond in the rough, with an amazing amount of potential. As time goes by we will no doubt hear more from them. I would'nt be surprised to hear their music on Prime Time Radio someday or even in a popular Video Game, Reality TV Series or even headlining say the Warp Tour. In close most famous artists out there have "it" I'm not so sure what it but Secret Season featuring Mark Moogalin and Isabelle Risacher have whatever "it" is.

Michael Morrison
West Lothian, Scotland (UK)
Rating: 8/10