Imagine cruising along the French Riviera, the salty breeze tousling your hair, as the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden hues over the Mediterranean. That’s the essence of French Summer, the latest album by Mortal Prophets, the brainchild of New York’s John Beckmann. This 18-track odyssey is a sonic tapestry weaving together nostalgia, desire, and the enigmatic allure of European summers.

From the very first notes of Romp in D Minor – Intro, you’re transported into a world where time slows, and every sound feels like a memory. The track sets the tone with its moody ambiance, inviting listeners into a realm of introspection and allure.

Monaco Rendez-Vous stands out as a shimmering gem. The track captures the opulence and mystery of the Monaco coastline, blending orchestral swells with analog synths, creating a soundscape that’s both grand and intimate. It’s like watching a classic French film, where every scene is drenched in emotion and elegance.

Then there’s Sun Seekers, a track that feels like a lazy afternoon on a secluded beach. The melodies are languid, the rhythms gentle, evoking the sensation of sun-warmed skin. It’s a track that invites you to close your eyes and drift.

Mushrooms take a more introspective turn. With its dreamy sequences and layered textures, it delves into the surreal, echoing the hallucinatory experiences of a mind exploring the depths of its own consciousness. It’s a journey inward, a moment of reflection amidst the external beauty.

Saint Tropez Tan brings back the playful energy, capturing the vibrant spirit of coastal towns and the allure of sun-kissed adventures. The track dances with flirtatious rhythms and catchy hooks, embodying the carefree joy of summer escapades.

Throughout the album, Beckmann’s production is masterful. He seamlessly blends elements of Euro-disco, avant-garde, and cinematic scores, creating a cohesive yet diverse auditory experience. The influence of artists like Daft Punk and Serge Gainsbourg is evident, but Beckmann infuses his unique touch, ensuring each track feels fresh and original.

Anaïs de Nerval’s contribution cannot be overstated. Her vocals are the thread that ties the album together, providing continuity and depth. She embodies the spirit of the album, her voice a vessel carrying the listener through the highs and lows of a French summer.

In French Summer, Mortal Prophets have crafted more than just an album; they’ve created an experience. It’s a journey through soundscapes that evoke memories, emotions, and dreams. It’s a testament to the power of music to transport, to evoke, and to connect.

So, if you’re yearning for a musical escape, a voyage through the romantic and mysterious landscapes of France, French Summer awaits. Let it be the soundtrack to your own adventures, real or imagined.