“Lendemains,” the new EP from Les soeurs Boulay, is a quieter, more reflective, and more intimate set of songs than their previous albums, “Le poid des confettis” and “4488 de l’amour.” Where their previous work by turns rocks and soothes, “Lendemains” is an often wistful but always lovely experience.
All four songs reflect a somewhat tentative, at times regretful, view of relationships. The first track, “Déjeuner,” performed starkly with guitar and voice only, pensively asks how many tomorrows remain until the beginning of the end. “Mamie, Mamie” will likely resonate with all of us who have endured this question from well-meaning relatives: when will you marry and have children, anyway?
“La maitié de toi qui dort” is the most up-tempo song on the album, featuring a very 1960s vibe. The lyrics begin with a subtle bite: “Je suis venue pour dire au revoir / À la moitié de toi qui dort” (I’ve come to say farewell / To the half of you that sleeps). (This, too, will no doubt resonate with anyone who’s ended a relationship with someone who just didn’t seem to be present.) The EP closes with the gorgeous ballad “Piedmont,” recorded on what sounds like an older piano (not quite out of tune), which adds to its charm even as it offers a somber acknowledgement that the beloved has been afraid of love and may not be able to let go of that fear.
Although the total time of the EP is scarcely ten minutes, quality more than makes up for quantity. All four songs are gorgeous and beautifully sung. If you’re not familiar with Les soeurs Boulay, start with this project as a quieter introduction, then listen to their previous work to hear the scope of which they’re capable.
~ L
