Tahiti 80 is not the typical sort of band you’d find listed on Punktastic. Hailing from France and taking huge influence from their countrymen Air, they have a sound that’s mellow, laid back and the furthest thing from punk I can imagine. Despite this, I’m going to recommend every single person reading this review goes out and picks up a copy of this, their third full-length album, as it simply outstanding.
Opening track ‘Big Day’ has a strong sense of Jamiroquai about it, with its caramel-smooth vocals and funk-driven bass line, and this is something that is continued throughout the album. It displays just how brilliant these guys are at crafting beautiful and melodic pop-music. Elsewhere, ‘Changes’ is a sure fire first single, as it’s infectious to the point of being dangerous. It’s what Bedouin Soundclash would sound like if someone shoved a drum machine up their collective arsehole, and pressed ‘play’. When you consider that Tahiti 80 are capable of creating great dance music such as this, as well as making simple, melody-driven folk in the form of ‘Take me back’, you realise they are true masters of their craft.
As well as the album itself, they’ve spoilt us with the inclusion of a collection of cover songs and the odd remix thrown in for good measure. Unfortunately these are the album’s downfall from perfection, as they don’t feel as complete as the other pieces, although there’s a notable exception in the form of ‘Happy Together’, originally performed by the Tutles. The original was already a great listen, and Tahiti have only improved upon this. There are times when life calls for something a little more laid back, a little more relaxed, and a lot less chilled out. Tahiti 80 have provided us with this in ‘Fosbury’. It’s the kind of record you can’t imagine anyone being able to criticise, as its appeal is universal. So go on, get yourself a cocktail (one of those with a little umbrella in it), lay back and put this record on repeat. You won’t be disappointed.
Andy R