What an odd duo: On the left, the ex-singer of the garage band Yeah Yeah Yeahs. On the right, the second half of Gnarls Barkley, who managed to take some time off from the thousands of projects she is already involved with. Their collaboration gives birth to a series of vintage and sophisticated pop songs, enigmatic at first but ultimately fascinating. Laidback and melancholic, both sensual and opulent, Karen O’s voice has a dreamlike quality reminiscent of major singers from the 1960’s. Facing her, Brian Burton, aka Danger Mouse, pulls out smooth beats and evanescent productions of both pop and cinematic quality. Both are well-read music lovers. They like to quote their inspirations, but their quotations are always sincere. They offer a wink to Motown (Woman), a look towards the solemnity of Pulp (à la This Is Hardcore), and a swim in ethereal soundscapes in the style of Pink Floyd while always remaining truthful to their identity. With frequent uses of reverbs, baritone guitars, analogical keys, indulgent and meticulous violins, and many refined melodies, Karen O and Danger Mouse have created the most elegant record of the moment. © Marc Zisman/Qobuz