Photo by @patriciareyesofficialOrphée Noah‘s “Feeling Mignon” is a genre-defying musical experience that fuses orchestral music, metal, and French chanson into a cohesive yet boundary-pushing sound.
Orphée’s musical background, having grown up under the influence of his mother, French jazz singer Elisabeth Kontomanou, and his exposure to the rich musical scenes in Nice, Paris, and Normandy shine through in “Feeling Mignon”.
Photos by @patriciareyesofficial + @sophiasomajo
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It is a profound work by this French artist, in which each song plays a specific role in the story being told. It is a collection of songs carefully crafted, with intention, detail, breadth, and a lot of emotion that creates a world that is both haunting and beautiful.
The early years of Orphée, spent under his father’s grand piano in French nightclubs, seem to have instilled in him a deep appreciation for unconventional melodies, which are masterfully reflected in “Feeling Mignon”.
The EP opens with “Attack On Us,” which premiered at the 2023 Swedish Grammy Awards, a significant moment in Orphée’s career. The song carries a poetic reflection on human progress, questioning whether our relentless pursuit of efficiency will ultimately lead to our downfall. It’s a powerful opener that feels like a cinematic confrontation with modern life, setting the stage for the emotional and philosophical journey that follows.
“Stuff That I Like” stands as both a celebration of life’s joys and a commentary on reality itself. Orphée Noah examines the fine line between what is genuinely fulfilling and what is merely a distraction, subtly alluding to artificial intelligence and its role in shaping our perception of the world. His blend of curiosity rather than animosity towards AI offers a refreshing take on the topic, making this track as thought-provoking as it is musically rich.
Photo by @patriciareyesofficialThe music video for this song was based on two failed attempts to create visuals that aligned with both the song and expectations, while trying to recreate somewhat unreal stories that had nothing to do with the track. The third attempt was the definitive one, showcasing a much more authentic Orphée Noah in various settings.
In “Never Ending,” Orphée invites listeners to contemplate their cosmic origins. His soft vocal delivery paired with atmospheric instrumentals creates a sense of serenity, while the lyrics—acknowledging our stardust origins—add a layer of existential peace. It’s a song about overcoming the fear of both life and death, capturing a profound yet calming essence.
“Butterflies” takes on a more personal tone, diving into feelings of emotional desensitization. The track evokes a sense of longing for the early, innocent stages of love, after having been saturated and blunted both by life and also by love. Orphée’s reflective lyrics ask, “Where are the butterflies in my stomach?“—a simple yet poignant question that will resonate with listeners who have felt the weight of emotional fatigue.
“Unrequited Love” adds a surreal twist to the EP. The eerie synthesizers, inspired by strange noises Orphée once heard in his old apartment, transport listeners into a world where alienation meets romantic rejection. This track perfectly showcases Orphée’s talent for blending the bizarre with the relatable, weaving a narrative of unreciprocated affection with an otherworldly soundscape.
Photo by @sophiasomajoThe closing track, “Believers Of Time,” is a complex exploration of our relationship with time. Featuring a mix of 4/4 and 6/8 time signatures, Orphée plays with the concept of punctuality and the inevitability of time slipping away. His admiration for those who can master the clock contrasts with his personal struggle to “show up on time” for life’s significant moments, creating an ironic worship of a force that both controls and eludes us.
From the elegance of Mozart to the raw energy of Metallica and the boundary-pushing creativity of Tyler, the Creator, Orphée Noah’s influences are as diverse as his sound. With “Feeling Mignon”, Orphée solidifies his position as an artist who isn’t afraid to push musical boundaries while maintaining a deeply personal and philosophical approach. This EP is a unique journey, offering listeners both profound introspection and a dynamic sonic experience that leaves a lasting impression.
