Naked Yoga – Tracks
Originating as an improvised jam at Kentish Town’s MAP Cafe in 2022, the unique and winsome London band Naked Yoga was subsequently formed. Sebastien “Dudu” Froment on bass, Adrien Baudrimont on guitar and Dan Meier on drums have produced a dynamic, eclectic electronic rock-jazz sound, popular in London’s music venues – as well as various fairs and festivals, like the Camden Rock Festival and the FESTIV’HAUL in Normandy.
Their second digital album following Triangle, the innovative, surprising and compelling Tracks – recorded five months ago – is described by the band as “five slabs of electro-cinematic disco-jazz inspired by trains, alpacas and David Lynch”.
A very French rail depot announcement by a flirtatious female voice opens the first piece, Station, setting the tone for a melodic, smooth electro-rock simulation of a train in motion. The chords are pleasant, energising and upbeat, conjuring scenery rushing past in your mind.
Coffee is introduced by robotic digital vocals – asking, “Would you like some coffee?”. Alternating tempos of rich guitar and electronic tones follow, with celestial, otherworldly sounds, then guitar and drumbeat with a pronounced 70s rock vibe.
A quirky, whimsical prelude launches Michel the Alpaca, succeeded by lively, energetic instrumentals and an angelic, surreal chorus. Borrowing from classic rock, driving bass and drums compete with interludes of off-key notes and soft guitar.
Aztec’s eccentric, discordant tones lead to mellow chimes, morphing into a hint of soul, electronic interjections, a military cadence, then a recurring stanza of rapid smooth rock.
Finally, Scream Train’s lead-in suggests bellicose Japanese warriors, then combined with a robust beat transposes to brilliant guitar with exotic, mellow notes. Ominous, dramatic and suspenseful, it is like a story unfolding, becoming more intense, then culminating in a drum roll finale.
Almost purely instrumental, Tracks is a superb compilation with excellent original composition, arrangement and performance. As a relatively new band, Naked Yoga proves to be a highly talented, exceptional group to look out for in the coming years.
Catherine Sedgwick
Image: Courtesy of Naked Yoga
Tracks is released on 23rd February 2025. For further information or to order the album visit Naked Yoga’s website here.
Watch the video for the single Scream Train here:
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