The French electro-pop band's second LP,
Touché Coulé was made after the duo's private-life partnership dissolved. Soldiering on in the professional realm, Éléphant offers a mix of chirpy dance tunes ("L'Amour la Haine," the title track) and sensual chanson ("Le Tour du Monde," "Les Espaces et les Sentiments"). Throughout, the pair delivers vocals -- some sung, some semi-rapped -- in unison, ever intertwined. Acoustic guitar, horns, strings, and acoustic percussion visit tracks on occasion, though the atmosphere remains electronic, with a pulse that compels movement of Friday-night footwear. ~ Marcy Donelson