I have a confession to make. The first time I heard Tohan and Nu’s track “Broken Tree”, I was so moved that I immediately contacted Nu and tried my damnedest to get her to work with me. Fortunately she declined… otherwise I’d be responsible for hindering further creativity between these two which, frankly, would be unacceptable. I can be such a selfish prick sometimes. But it’s ok. I forgive me.
Tohan and Nu are from France and the UK respectively. They belong to one of the most intriguing movements in music these days, at least to me. They’ve never set foot in the same room. All of their creations have come to exist via the Postal Service Model or, as is probably more appropriate, the FTP (e-mail, etc) Model. What I find so wonderful about making music like this is that is speaks to something that can be all too elusive, both in music and in life. Real chemistry. And when it’s there it’s so powerful that no body of water, language barrier or meddling electronic musician can get in the way. It’s just there.
Their first track, Broken Tree, is an absolute testament to that. Tohan’s production is minimal and fits the melancholic vocals and guitar from Nu perfectly. Nu’s lyrics are absolutely beautiful in their simplicity and leave just enough to the imagination that most people will find themselves relating in some way or another.
Fading starts with an ominous bass-driven intro before working its way into a haunting and extremely emotional peak. Parts of this song remind me of Beth Gibbons‘ solo stuff (in all the right ways), albeit slightly more electronic and effected (in all the right ways). Nu’s vocals are especially moving on this one, particularly towards the end where, either through the use of delays or extremely impressive vocal control, there’s a fantastic vibrato effect… very nice.
Anyway, I highly recommend downloading these tracks (links below)… you can’t beat free, especially when it’s better than most of the shit the majors are putting out these days. As always, enjoy the music and keep your eyes peeled for another review with more free tunes in the next week or so!
Tohan and Nu’s Tracks (right click, “Save As”):
Broken Tree
Fading
