Album Review: Different Rouge by Le Jardin – A French Pop Gem That Stays With You
If you’re into music that feels like a warm hug but also makes your brain tingle, Different Rouge by Le Jardin is worth a spin. Released in 2019 out of France, this album blends pop, French pop, and rock with touches of post-rock and indie vibes. It’s not trying too hard to impress—it just does. And honestly? That’s what makes it special.
The mastermind behind the whole thing is Arnaud Laflaquiere. Dude does everything: composing, playing guitars (electric and acoustic), keys, programming, producing—you name it. He even tickles the ivories on piano! The rest of the crew—like Daniel Farrugia on drums, Ben Edgar adding some lap steel magic, and Aline Le Gonidec’s dreamy lead vocals—bring their own flavor to the mix. Mixed by Ian Caple, it all comes together in this lush, layered sound that feels both intimate and cinematic.
Now, let’s talk tracks. There are 16 songs here, but two really stuck with me: “AU MATIN” and “Escargot.”
“AU MATIN” kicks things off with this gentle swell of piano and soft percussion. Aline’s voice floats over the top like she’s whispering secrets only you can hear. It’s one of those songs where you don’t realize how much it’s gotten under your skin until hours later when you catch yourself humming it while brushing your teeth. The melody lingers, kinda like sunlight peeking through curtains after a lazy morning. Super chill, super beautiful.
Then there’s “Escargot,” which totally flips the vibe. This track has more groove, almost playful, with quirky synth lines and a bassline from Rob Calder that just bounces along. I mean, who wouldn’t smile at a song called “Escargot”? It’s got this whimsical energy, like skipping stones across a pond or watching snails race (yeah, they do that). But don’t let its fun exterior fool ya—it still packs an emotional punch somewhere deep down.
What’s wild about Different Rouge is how it doesn’t stick to one mood or style. One moment you’re floating in dreamland; the next, you’re tapping your foot like crazy. Tracks like “PARTIR” bring in trumpet and flugelhorn courtesy of Ross Irwin, giving it this jazzy edge, while “JOLIE” leans into something softer and sweeter. Oh, and shoutout to Jon Solo for sprinkling Mellotron goodness throughout—it adds this retro-futuristic vibe that ties everything together.
At the end of the day, Different Rouge feels less like an album and more like hanging out with old friends who always know how to surprise you. Sure, some tracks blend together if you’re not paying attention, but isn’t that kinda life? Not every moment needs to scream for attention—it’s the quiet ones that sneak up on you.
Here’s the unexpected part though: listening to this album made me crave escargots à la bourguignonne. No joke. So maybe grab some garlic butter before hitting play?
Final verdict: If you dig thoughtful, textured tunes with a French twist, give Different Rouge a shot. Just don’t blame me if you start randomly craving snails.
