La Fleur Fatale are probably Sweden's finest exponents of prime psychedelic rock at this moment in time. Their sound is deeply rooted in the classic era for the genre and at the same time has enough up to date references to sit comfortably amongst what more 'modern' bands might have to offer. Their music is neither self conscious or calculating, it's just honest and can be held up as an example to others of how to work in a seemingly bygone musical genre and open up new avenues for everyone to explore. With bands like this around the genre will hopefully attract more young musicians to explore the wonderful expansive world of psychedelic rock. Night Generation has been attracting attention in the band's native Sweden, also in parts of Europe and is now doing the same in the US.
The album kicks off with 'Straightway Ride' which has lush instrumentation, fine harmonies and whimsical overtones that strengthen the overall sound rather than water down the sound which is a trap that can easily be fallen into in less caring hands. 'Night Generation' has more of an upbeat feel to it and has a fine piano led melody with cool vocal harmonies and a nice understated Farfisa organ motif. 'I Wanna Be Adored' has a great acoustic guitar chord sequence threading through it with fizzing electric guitar lurking in the background all held down by one of those 1967 semi-military drum patterns, great stuff! 'Children Of Neon Lights' has a forceful piano rythmn and a signature flute motif in between the tight unison vocals.
'Sunshine Underground' kicks off with the ever welcome sound of a Mellotron that permeates through the songs structure, the song itself is carried along on a busy bass melody shackled to some purposeful and powerful drumming.'Swift Flash Of Mind' is an expansive, beautifully arranged example of dramatic songwriting, whilst 'Free The View' is popsyke at it's best with it's instantly memorable melody and seductive hook lines. 'Gigantic Boredom' is yet another example of concise catchy songwriting, that makes you want to listen to it again and again. There's also a hidden track at the end of the album which features a mournful pump organ and ends the album on a curiously downbeat mood, but it doesn't detract at all from the overall listening experience.
Night Generation is a fabulous album and La Fleur Fatale thoroughly deserve the recognition they are now starting to receive. I can't recommend this album high enough, if you're looking for well crafted, hook laden, melodic songs with an adventurous psychedelic slant.
Reviewed by Kevin Wallbank of M100 and Honeymoon on Mars
