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Michèle Ducray - EP Review: Throne Of Mine

05 Oct 2023 // A review by Corinne Rutherford
Mysterious and sinister themes such as horror combined with the colourful characteristics of circus life are the inspiration behind emerging dark-pop artist Michèle Ducray's debut EP Throne Of Mine. The balance of both dark and light create a fresh and original sound that is complex as it is identifiable.

New Zealand based Ducray's previously released singles from the EP have gained local support from the likes of The Edge, ZM and TAHI and on various streaming platforms. She has also performed at several of New Zealand’s top music festivals.

Quirky, intimate lyrics accompanied by sleek drum and bass. The “self-confessed fan of the peculiar” does not disappoint.

The four tracks on her EP are intensely personal and immediately engaging. An expression of childhood feelings in the most unique and enthralling manner.

Monster takes you on a fair ground ride (or carousel) of mystical storytelling and theatrical synth. A clever track that is a complex yet bright. Previously described as “giving the sense of a dark nursery rhyme,” the song about bullying draws on the sense of feeling attacked, ultimately standing up conquering the beast. I loved how the whole song transported your mind to Alice In Wonderland and your body to the dance floor of a club.

This Segway's beautifully into Psycho another weird, and wonderful track with a gripping hook and seductive tone.

The musical soundscape of this debut EP is lush, eccentric, and authentic. Completely different from anything else. That is the appeal.

Ace Of Spades is my standout, a lighter electro pop sound. The song alludes to relationships being like a poker game, what you will and won’t take in a relationship. As Michèle describes, it still has that mysterious carny vibe about it.

It is that mysterious carny vibe that lends an air of mystique and wonder to this EP.

Finally, the title track Throne Of Mine is short and sweet warped electronica. Bewitching and slightly mind-bending pop-punk. The last of 4 intoxicating songs that I found utterly spellbinding.

Michèle Ducray is a fresh and interesting songwriter who transports you into a world of dark fantasy and seductive sound. Monster and Psycho are accompanied by slick music videos which are creatively directed and as mesmerizing as the songs.

Produced, mixed, and mastered by Liam Quinn (Peaches, PRC, Rita Ora) in his studio in Sydney Australia. Support by Christchurch based musician Jessie Bruce.

 

About Michèle Ducray

Originally from the humble shores of Durban, South Africa, Michèle Ducray is a versatile, fiery vocalist and singer-songwriter. She began writing and singing her own songs at the tender age of 11, whilst based overseas in China. Travelling to many different places around the world at such a young age, exposed her to a variety of music. She drew inspiration from these experiences, settling on an alternative pop sound and applied them to her own musical endeavours. When Michèle writes, she tends to draw from her own experiences in life and utilises this through metaphorical subconscious imagery, aiming to leave her audience feeling like they have lived through these moments, themselves.

After gaining a better understanding of musical theory, In 2019, Michèle sought to create a covers band to enhance her performance experience around Christchurch city, whilst writing and performing her original music to the side. She has since played local festivals, radio stations, clubs/bars and musical productions; with upcoming Spaced Out Sessions concerts being held at Grater Goods with 212 Music Group.

Deciding to breathe technical life into her own music, she reached out to popular music producers Devin Abrams and Simon Gooding, last year, whom both collaborated on her first single, Midnight, which is due to be released this May. Described as “super dope” by Tiki Taane and Big Sima, Midnight tells a tale of tragedy and the awareness of how isolated one can feel in times of uncertainty. This hauntingly, majestic piece was written during the COVID-16 lockdown period.

Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Michèle Ducray

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