Not since the early days of Kraftwerk have synthesizers been so cool, thanks to Au Revoir Simone. The synth is usually seen as an accessory to the stock guitar-bass-drum lineup, however, ARS embrace the technology of synthesizers and leave the rest of the band at the music store.
Hailing from Brooklyn, ARS are Erika Forster (vocals/keyboard), Annie Hart (vocals/keyboard), and Heather D’Angelo (vocals/drum machine/keyboard). With their mixture of ethereal dreamy soundscapes, which may put you in mind of Stereolab or Air, along with childlike infectious vocals, and beguiling song lyrics, ARS have brought something special to the indie music scene. Or as huge ARS fan David Lynch has stated “Innocent, hip, and new.”
From the quirky and sweet “Verse Of Comfort” (2005), through the more assured yet understated “The Bird Of Music” (2007), to their current collection, the poppy Brian Wilson/Phil Spector influenced “Still Night, Still Light” (2009), ARS have steadily broadened their sound as well as their fan base. Unique and engaging music videos, my favorite being “Falling Snow”, have also helped to spread the ARS magic.
Currently wrapping up their summer tour dates in Europe, ARS are making a splash in the continental music news while winning new fans everywhere they play. The big question is what’s next for ARS? Is it possible that they have peaked? Or are the next big thing? Based on what I’ve heard they certainly deserve all of the success in the world.