I'd heard about Éléphant Tôk (Elephant Tok) since they first broke onto the scene a few years ago. The reviews were mixed so I decided to take a pass. Not much has been said about the followup, and when a new copy came up for sale at a bargain price, I decided to chance it. That was a good move. Éléphant Tôk provides a unique twist on a patented formula. With the driving bass, thundering drums, and Fender Rhodes noodling, there is no question this is the music of Zeuhl. The vocals are a bit different, sometimes in chanting Kobian mode, other times a weird style of narration (and what appears to be English, not always intelligible). I think I've even heard the word "rap" used, but I would avoid that connotation, as that's not really the spirit of the art form provided here. In any case, vocals are not predominant. Jazz rock is another element to consider here, as the music has a loose structure at times, but never wanky or out of control. The production is magnificent, and this allows the thick bass sounds to come to the fore - without a doubt a key ingredient to any Zeuhl album. In the end, one hears an interesting combination of Weidorje, Caillou, and One Shot. The latter is no accident considering former band member and drummer Daniel Jeand'heur is the driving force behind Éléphant Tôk. Worth investigating.
Ownership: CD: 2018 D3P Productions. Discogs defines the packaging as: "A gatefold folder-style mini LP sleeve with color cardboard CD sleeve in a resealable clear plastic sleeve." It's a bit unique, unlike any other CD I own.
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