Play blessures
Alain Bashung · 1982
58 min · 13 tracks · new wave
A kaleidoscopic blend of new wave and rock, underpinned by Bashung's distinctive voice and innovative instrumentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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C’est comment qu’on freine Start here — The opening track sets a tone of playful irony with a catchy melody that encapsulates Bashung's unique lyrical style.
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Martine boude — This track features an infectious rhythm and clever wordplay, highlighting Bashung's ability to blend humor with social commentary.
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Strip Now — With its driving beat and provocative lyrics, this song exemplifies the album's daring exploration of themes related to desire and identity.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases inventive production and a unique blend of styles, solidifying Bashung's place in French rock.
What we noticed
- Several tracks incorporate unconventional instrumentation, such as synthesizers and effects-laden guitars, creating a distinct sound palette.
- The first half of the album maintains a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied rhythms and dynamics.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady flow with surprising twists
- quirky narratives for curious minds
- engaging instrumentals for deep listening
- playful yet reflective vibes
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward, predictable tracks
- seek instant gratification in music
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — Cited as one of Bashung's finest works, showcasing innovative production.
- Themes
- French new wave· playful irony· social commentary
- Career context
- Released in 1982, Play blessures was Alain Bashung's third studio album, following his breakthrough with the critically acclaimed album L'Impressionniste in 1980. This record solidified his status as a leading figure in the French rock scene, showcasing his evolving sound and lyrical depth during a pivotal moment in his career.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Jean-Michel Jarre· David Bowie· Mylène Farmer
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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J’envisage
The verses gradually shift from abstract musings to vivid personal imagery that intensifies emotional engagement.
The transition from general contemplation to intimate detail creates a compelling contrast that deepens the listener's connection to the narrative.
Tracklist
- 1 C’est comment qu’on freine Start here 3:15
- 2 Scènes de manager 3:47
- 3 Volontaire 4:05
- 4 Prise femelle (instrumental) 1:07
- 5 Martine boude 3:44
- 6 Lavabo 3:17
- 7 J’envisage 4:35
- 8 J’croise aux Hébrides 4:50
- 9 Junge Männer 2:29
- 10 Trompé d’érection 3:16
- 11 Strip Now 4:37
- 12 Bistouri scalpel 4:18
- 13 Procession (instrumental) 14:48
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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