Mauger hails from Ghent in Belgium. Originally consisting of former musicians from the worryingly entitled Absynthe Minded, it is now the solo project of Mauger Mortier. The new one-man version has stepped back from the happy accidents of communal jamming to squirrel himself away in his attic, look within for inspiration and embrace the imperfect. He's not a total recluse though, and this time around he's dialled an angel and wisely invited the sweet voiced Sophia Ammann to the studio.
An acoustic guitar refrain gets the ball rolling before some quivering, emotion nudging synths keep it company and set a fine scene. He's got a voice as well, all those hours in the attic have dialled up the introspective and fragile qualities, although there's an affability which draws you closer, as he bares his soul for all to hear without the usual bandmate crutch.
The simple, yet compelling first half of perfectly woven synths, guitar and voice could have carried the tune on their own, but then Ammann climbs the stairs to keep him company and shine her light on proceedings, going solo with her response at first before harmonising with Mortier, to a backdrop of patiently building lysergic layers which morph into a fitting psychedelic crescendo of swirling emotions.
It's a tale of saúde; the duo looking back through time faded memory and rose tinted glasses to reflect on youthful decisions, pondering forks in life's road, paths taken, prizes won and opportunities missed. It's a pleasantly microdosed, bittersweet, consummately crafted and timeless alt-pop gem that's been on repeat the last few days.
Playlist Companion
Find this great tune adding some bittersweetness to the Slow Psyche Playlist.
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