AT THE CINEMA

I wondered what was the kick for "Rousseau" to get togehter fifteen years after their last album. Not the pleasure to be together again since only two members played on "Square The Circle" : Pfeffer on drums and Hofman on the keys. The magic of their first two albums is maybe not fully present on this one but it is still not a bad album.

My favourite song of this album is "Rendez-Vous". Full of melody and beauty. Very soft start, but it'll get a litle wilder once Scharz will produce a Gilmouresque guitar solo. A great and emotional part; no doubt.

We won't leave the Floyding mood with "All I Want" but not for the same reasons. On this one, it will be the voice that is related to David. Just average (not Dave but the track). Another highlight of the album is "Waterfront". The guitar play is again excellent (reminds me Josh from Mostly Autumn). "If This Is Heaven" surprisingly explores a bit the folkish mood. The link with Mostly Autumn is again easy (same apllies to "Back In These Arms" which also features a nice violin break).

We'll be reverted to the old "Rousseau" sound as well with "Retreat". Extremely sweet and full of harmony. It is a wonderful and peaceful song like the band has produced a lot. Some weak moments as well on this album. Actually, from "Seattle" through ..."Through" (sorry about this) the album is getting poor.

As usual, we' ll have a title in French (I wonder why they did so...). "Amour Fou" (crazy love) has nothing to do with a crazy song : not so exciting unfortunately.

The last song is again a very tranquil and very nice one. Seems that Rousseau wanted to say goodbye like they said hello some twenty-years ago with "Flower In Asphalt". I have to say that it is a wonderful goodbye. On par with "Rendez-Vous".

This album is of course far from being essential but still, it holds some good songs not too far from the spirit of their early releases. Like I have mentioned, several songs remind me of MA. For the first time as well, the new lead singer sounds good.

Three stars.