aaamusic | On 28, Nov 2011

Catherine Ringer has never been an artist to hold back. So whilst Ring n’ Roll may be Catherine’s debut as a solo performer, the former Les Rita Mitsouko singer gives a unique and confident delivery. From the syncopated rhythm of opening track Vive L’Amour, through to the grunge rock of Quel Est Ton Nom, Ring n’ Roll is intriguing and unpredictable. There are plenty of sharp, jagged edges to this album, and a sense of grief often seems to be running perilously close to the surface. Ring n’ Roll is the first recording Catherine has created since the death of her life partner and musical collaborator Fred Chichin. The impact is never more apparent than on Mahler, sung over the Adagietto of Gustav Mahler’s Fifth Symphony. This is Catherine’s tribute to Fred and really displays her exceptional vocal talents. Despite the anguish of this album, there are some lighter moments. The Z Bar is an upbeat, observational track, with Catherine describing: “The kind of place you’d surely pass over, the kind of place with only three customers”.

Ring n’ Roll is a tricky album to pin down. Catherine’s emotions continually shift, not only from track to track, but also within songs. Everything is revealed, and nothing is hidden from the listener. Although the majority of tracks are performed in Catherine’s native language, this is no barrier to appreciating the essence of the songs. The exposed quality of Catherine’s voice ensures that there is still transparency. Musically the arrangements are constantly interesting and can take the listener by surprise. There is certainly an eclectic mix of style on this album – perhaps a result of working with a variety of artists including Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA, and John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Nevertheless, there is a tension which permeates the recording and is never fully resolved. Ring n’ Roll is not an easy album to listen to; it is uncompromising and defiant, and proud to be so.

Samantha Edgley