La Fraction returns after years of absence! If you responded with the same: “huh?” I ushered when I learned this, there is not much to be ashamed about. I had never heard of this band before. However, after listening to De L’Autre Côté I am a bit sad I did not hear of this band earlier. Better late than never, I guess.
A little background: La Fraction is a Parisian punk band that has been around a while. Their first EP was released in 1996, after which they released three full lengths. Not much seems to have happened between 2006 and now, only a single was released in 2013. That’s a long break. The two songs from that single can be found on De L’Autre Côté too, so that’s eight new songs in almost ten years.
A lot can happen in ten years (or sixteen years if you chose to ignore that single). And while this is true for La Fraction I should also not exaggerate. They have a recognizable sound. Very melodic, but with an air about it that makes me think some melodic crust records find their way to the record players of these folks. I am reminded of two bands while listening to De L’Autre Côté. First of all: Hysterese. They sound different, but share some influences. It is that slight crust influence, some melodic hardcore and a sprinkle of the more melodic OI!, but mostly they share a brilliant sense for catchy melodies. The other band that keeps popping up is The Assassinators. This one is a bit more difficult to explain. I guess the link is again the melodies, but also the drive. Both bands feel like they are mad and urgently want to share their viewpoints with you, but without sounding like an angry mofo.
Anyways, back to what changed. I have not only spent some time with De L’Autre Côté, but also delved into the back catalog. These songs sound a bit more mature. Where this often means the sharp edges have been filed off, this is not the case for La Fraction. When I say more mature I mean that more in the sense the compositions sound a bit more thought out. I don’t mean to say this band turned prog, no, it is all in the small details. Transitions flow smoother and sound much smarter. Magali’s voice has changed a bit too. If you ask me, her voice has aged like fine wine. Listening to this and the old records, you can hear the change, she sounds a bit more hoarse, and it only adds character. In my opinion, her voice and the way she plays with her vocal lines, the small details, she now reminds me of those French chanseuses. Edith Piaff in a punk setting if you like. To me, she is the main selling point of this band. In fact, her voice and the way it changed over the years makes this the best record in their discography.
I have found this band to be highly addictive, especially the record I am discussing with you today. I can only hope La Fraction doesn’t make us wait another sixteen years for a new album.
