If Kylie Minogue and the band members from Air and Wilco had a gigantic orgy on top of a "Dance Dance Revolution" machine, their baby would probably sound a bit similar to Saint Etienne.
This authentically English trio plays Britpop at its finest, with elements of folk, jazz and trance mixed in. Saint Etienne's latest album, Tales From Turnpike House, is a tribute to residents of a block apartment building on the outskirts of London.
If you have more Union Jacks than American flags on your clothing, you'll most assuredly appreciate this album for its honest portrayal of British life. Vocalist Sarah Cracknell sings about typical everyday occurrences, like visiting the grocery store and going for a morning walk.
Each song becomes a painting or snapshot of British life, vibrant with the colors of medieval court music rhythms or off-the-cuff English references. With the pronounced accent of an English lady, Cracknell speaks the lyrics to an entire song.
"Mum's with push-chairs outside Sainsbury's/tears in their eyes/They'll never buy a Gibb Brothers record again" she almost whispers above the harmonic acoustic guitar in "Teenage Winter."
The only problem with the record is that it's kind of hard to relate to, unless you've been to London at some time or another. But the main themes of the album - love, hardships, happiness - can be translated into any language or culture.
| Tales from Turnpike House |
| Saint Etienne |
| Best track: "Sun in My Morning" |
| Sound like: Feist |
Tales from Turnpike House is also a great relaxation album, with a flute and an eclectic guitar player that channel smooth rhythms from all different genres and ages.
As for the "DDR," some of the more upbeat songs utilize computerized melodies and trancy electronica, but never drive the focus away from sophisticated pop toward trashy dance music.
Saint Etienne is a true British band that just happens to sound like it's from all over the world.