The Penthesíleia project is created by the Paris-based performing arts troupe Moonsonic. It features musicians from four continents, including bansuri player Rishab Prasanna from New Delhi. There are also four female vocalists of note, including beatbox artist Julieta. Through song and story, the production depicts an episode in the adventures of Penthesilea, a young Amazon woman from ancient mythology. Pulled from references to this legendary figure, the performance gives life to her journey through sound and creative expression. With a diversity of global talents combined, La Cabane Aux Fées seeks to entertain audiences with this imaginative work brought to the stage.
The 10-track project kicks off with the title track featuring the gorgeous vocals of Rishab Prasanna. His flowing Indian style introduces the song in a classical style that takes an unexpected turn into lush electronics. The blending of traditional instruments and electronic beats had my jaw on the floor – it’s the perfect fusion that begs to be danced to. As a sucker for the flute, the incorporation here among the pulsing production was stunning. By the end, the slowing tempo evokes the blissful calm after a cathartic experience.
“Akhilleús (Le Fantasme)” by Moonsonic carries the serene vibe from the closing moments of the opener, led initially by flute and gentle keys that cultivate a pensive mood. There’s a vulnerability conveyed through the instrumentation. Toward the second half, the electronics and woodwinds surge with newfound determination, paralleling a surge of inner strength. The progression deftly maps an emotional arc.
“Le Rêve de Penthésilée (Prescience et mauvaise conscience)” sees Moonsonic and Rishab collaborating once again to sublime effect. Rishab’s flute work glides smoothly over the production, inserting delicate notes that add a lovely texture. Meanwhile, the bassline injects a subtle funkiness that enhances the fluid ebb and flow of the arrangement. The swooning saxophone that emerges in the track’s latter half came as a lovely surprise, too – its smoky tones gave the piece even more depth and soul.
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On “La Fête des Roses (Reproduction et volupté),” multiple artists unite their talents to stirring results. A fender bass, flute layers, and crisp percussion interweave elegantly. Meanwhile, four women bring lush jazz-tinged vocals into the mix with their choir-like harmonies. Together, all the elements conjure a mood and atmosphere that is by turns sensual, emotive, and richly textural.
“Danse du Venin (L’art de la guerre)” has a seductive air courtesy of its sultry vocals and slow-burning beats. Hend Zouari enhances the sensual mood with his addition of a groovy melodic flair on the saxophone. Dotting the arrangement are flashes of ingenious beatboxing that maintain energy levels throughout the languid yet tantalizing rhythm. It’s easy to find yourself lost in the hypnotic flow, moving languidly along with the smoldering sensuality.
Meanwhile, “Otrère la Mère (Goût de la mort)” possesses a shadowy and introspective quality. A gloomy veil hangs over bassline and flute melodies that mesmerize the listener into a state of deep reflection. It’s a track that brings out raw emotions as your mind and senses are beautifully immersed in the poignant interplay between the instruments.
“Memnon l’Éthiopien (D’autres mondes existent)” awakens the spirit with its hopeful morning ambiance. The first notes of the flute warm the heart with the promise of adventure ahead. The layered flute work tells a wondrous storyline, transporting the listener on a journey of discovery. When percussion and keys later enter to lift the mood higher, it’s easy to feel uplifted and eager to embrace each new day.
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Meanwhile, “Ananké (La Destruction)” takes a darker turn, filled with anger, frustration, and mystery. Deep bass rumbles ominously as brisk flute dances atop, keeping the tension high. The climactic burst that ensues pulls all these emotions to a head in a truly cinematic fashion. When the drop comes, it’s nothing short of jaw-dropping – the perfect musical representation of pent-up tensions released in an explosive, thrilling manner.
“L’Ombre du Rêve (Désolation et convalescence)” has a haunting yet hopeful atmosphere. The plaintive flute conveys sadness and desolation, while soft notes from the piano and keys provide glimpses of potential consolation. As the song progresses, it takes on a mysterious, ambiguous quality that leaves the listener wondering what’s to come. The dual themes of devastation and recovery create a powerful emotional journey.
Closing the album is the epic “Vexoris (L’Exil),” clocking in at over six and a half minutes. It kicks off with a sense of urgency from the flute lines. Arabic influences shine through in the interplay between the flute and qanun (a string instrument), building layers of melody. The rhythm picks up momentum with a danceable beat that’s hard not to groove along to. Around the halfway point, tabla percussion(if I am not wrong) and atmospheric vocals enter, taking the song to new heights. By the end, it feels like a joyous celebration is unfolding after a long struggle. Multiple listens only reveal more complex details and melodic delights. “Vexoris” by Moonsonic, with a myriad of artists, is an impressive tour de force that’s sure to keep you looping back for its infectious energy, rhythmic intrigue, and mastery of fusing diverse influences into a cohesive whole.
Enjoy listening to “Penthesíleia” by Moonsonic here.
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