The No Comprendo cover

Released 40 years ago

The No Comprendo

Les Rita Mitsouko · 1986

45 min · 10 tracks · new wave

Eclectic new wave rhythms intertwine with playful lyrics and vibrant melodies, embodying 80s French pop culture.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    C'Est Comme Ça — This track stands out with its infectious chorus and catchy hook, encapsulating the playful yet poignant spirit that defines the album.
  • →
    Andy — With its engaging narrative and compelling rhythm, this song showcases the band's ability to blend storytelling with danceable beats.
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    Un Soir Un Chien — This track's darker undertones juxtaposed with lively instrumentation highlights the duo's versatility and depth in songwriting.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases eclectic rhythms and playful lyrics, reflecting its unique place in 80s French pop.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a high-energy track that features layered vocals and a driving beat, setting a lively tone.
  • Several tracks incorporate unexpected tempo changes, such as 'C'Est Comme Ça', which shifts from a steady rhythm to a more frenetic pace.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

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, consistent energy levels
  • mid-tempo reflective moments
  • playful and vibrant soundscapes
  • immersive listening experience
  • engaging lyrical storytelling

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1986, The No Comprendo was Les Rita Mitsouko's breakthrough album, following their debut record, Rita Mitsouko. At this point, the duo had begun to establish themselves as a unique force in the French music scene, blending various genres and styles, which would set the tone for their future work.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • C'Est Comme Ça

    The chorus repeatedly affirms a carefree attitude towards life amidst chaotic situations.

    This repetition creates an anthem-like quality that emphasizes resilience and joy despite adversity.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Les Histoires D'a 4:04
  • 2 Andy 5:30
  • 3 C'Est Comme Ça 4:41
  • 4 Vol de Nuit 4:12
  • 5 Someone to Love 3:03
  • 6 Stupid Anyway 4:45
  • 7 Un Soir Un Chien 5:44
  • 8 Bad Days 5:03
  • 9 Tonite 5:11
  • 10 Nuit D'Ivresse 3:43

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata