The tireless duo of Emileigh Rohn and Jean-Marc Lederman released last month a new LP, entitled Volcano, featuring twelve new synth-pop compositions of flawless craftsmanship. It’s the sixth album in a collaboration that began in 2021 with Venus Chariot, and since then they’ve released a full record every year. And since in March they have already released a record, we can assume we’ll get EPs—or another album—before we reach 2027. We’ve already spoken in depth about both artists and most of their releases have been reviewed in El Garaje, so we’ll skip that part this time. The album has been released by Les Disques de la Pantoufle on CD, and it’s also available digitally.
Although we hate repeating ourselves, this new album shares the same positive aspects: excellent songwriting, Emileigh’s outstanding performance, and imaginative arrangements from Jean-Marc. That’s something genuinely surprising in such a prolific trajectory. And while we might highlight a few standout moments, the overall standard of the songwriting remains consistently high—never dropping for a single track.
As for the track-by-track rundown, the emotional intensity of the album is already hinted at by the cover’s picture: “All Ahead Was Joy” grabs you immediately, thanks to Emileigh’s emotive voice—pure, fragile, almost childlike. The music that accompany her beautiful singing is just as delicate, with surges of feeling even as early as the second-minute forty mark. A powerful start, without doubt.
“Hopscotch Across Colored Chalk” is one of the album’s most compelling and surprising compositions: futuristic yet delicate at the same time. “Paper Plane” is sensual and dreamy synth-pop. The duo grows more tender on “There’s So Much Here to Share,” propelled by a pressed, melodic lift. They stay in that register for “That Message Brings You Home,” one of the album’s best tracks—truly captivating and deeply moving.
But not everything is about tugging at the heartstrings; the next track turns up the heat, with stronger guitars and a more danceable, playful electronics. “The Future Knows Much Better” is, moreover, one of the catchiest songs on the record. “Animals Take The Stage” benefits from a heartfelt performance by Emileigh and a very modern production.
“I’ll Be Back Within a Moment” blends tradition and modernity, resulting in one of those perfectly crafted pop songs. “Where Does Love Beguine?” is simply another beautiful track—music that lifts you emotionally. “Showing Signs of Grace” sounds darker, in the way we like, and it’s another showcase for Jean-Marc’s skills as a producer.
After ten tracks, the classic entry of “To Greener Grass” still manages to surprise, reaffirming the duo as true magicians of electronic pop. We close with “We Become The Sky,” another emotional gem—just enough to let the final tear fall.
