Racoon Racoon | A Birds Story Review

By Bea Willis

Racoon Racoon is a folk duo formed in 2016 by Léa and Léonard, a chamber-folk duo from France. The duet wandered across several countries to finally settle near the Alps Mountains in Italy. There sound is a combination of nude voices and raw instruments. Their first EP, Our Love’s Funeral, was a unique set of songs in an intimate atmosphere. The songs were recorded live in Brussels during a long night session. A subtle touch, a double bass played by the brilliant Thomas Fiorini from the Brussels Philharmonic Orchestra, rounded out the duet’s sound. In Early 2018, they released their second EP, Dawn Chorus, written in the Italian Alps’ heart. They recorded it in Belgium with talented musicians from the Brussels’ Philharmonic orchestra Thomas Fiorini (double bass) and Emile Verstraeten (violins and mandolin) that Léo met while working as a set-up engineer on a recording of Ramin Djawadi (Game of Thrones). Racoon Racoon is now returning with their third EP titled, A Birds Story. The line-up is Léa Courty, vocals; Léonard Bremond, guitar, vocals; and Emile Verstraeten, violin, and alto saxophone.

“Birds and Daisies” features the duet in a calm setting with moving lyrics. Léa’s voice is angelic as Léonard joins her for various sections. The second verse has gorgeous vocal harmonies, and the bridge is an excellent release from the percussive guitar part, and the added reverb on the vocals adds a mysterious sound. The vocalized melody is a beautiful compositional idea, and Verstraeten’s violin gives support.

“Thunderbird” features Léonard singing the first verse. The six-eight pulse of the guitar part has the influence of early rock-n-roll. The beautiful vocal harmonies are augmented with Verstraeten’s violin. The mid-way point adds a simple drum set playing a steady beat. Léa’s rich vocals climb to her falsetto range, which is just as angelic as her other ranges.

A Birds Story is eight tracks of gentle, graceful songs and lush vocals. Racoon Racoon has a beautiful male and female vocal sound, and the instrumental interludes are dreamy. This is a lovely set for the moments when easygoing wistful music is needed to set the mood.

5 Finger Review rates this an 89

A Birds Story

About the author

Bea Willis

Author

With an unwavering passion for music that began at the tender age of five, I embarked on a journey of self-expression through the piano, later expanding my repertoire to the guitar and the art of singing. As a seasoned performer in cozy coffee shops and harmonious choir ensembles, I've immersed myself in the diverse tapestry of musical genres, seeking to uncover the intricate qualities that strike a chord within our souls.

Beyond my personal experiences, my journalistic pursuits have led me to explore the stories and inspirations behind the melodies we hold dear. As a music journalist, I aim to delve into the heart of each composition, shedding light on the creative minds that have shaped the soundscape of our lives.

In my downtime, you can find me serenading my loyal canine companion with heartfelt tunes on the guitar or indulging in retail therapy to enhance my ever-growing wardrobe. Songwriting holds a special place in my heart, and I yearn for the day when I can share my creative talents with the world. Until then, my passion for uncovering the emotional power within music continues to drive my insightful reviews and analyses, as I journey through the rich landscape of melodies that move us.