Staggs refresh the parts other brands cannot hope or dare to reach.
Mortality is at the forefront of minds at this time and Staggs, never ones to opt out of considering the vagaries and ultimate consequences of life, focus on the transition between this world and the next (if you believe in that sort of thing).
Staggs are pioneers so it's apt, if not deliberate, that the 1969 track by The Pioneers is raided for the closing electro punk work out about meeting the chap at the Pearly Gates.
A well known and somewhat apposite refrain underpins m.t. scotts world weary travelogue on the death of Staggs which links the third and first tracks. Familiar arpeggiating strings link travels in europa and self-referential nods back to earlier works and a suggestion that this is the last work. If this is indeed the end then it is a suitable way to end the Staggs journey .
No one does funk quite like Staggs do it....opener Curtains raids bass riffs and other things to remind us that it is OK to dance your way out of your constrictions.
As with all Staggs productions the language is rich, the tune construction innovates and provokes a knowing smile. The end, who can tell? Staggs always keep you guessing.... Les Staggs est mort, viva Les Staggs.
Smooth, sophisticated pop with neoclassical flourishes from the Berlin-based duo of Fabian Till and Birk Buttcherey. Bandcamp New & Notable May 2, 2024