Artist: Papillon De Nuit
Title: Frozen Charlotte
Genre: Gothic Rock / Classical / Post Punk / Dark Wave / Experimental
Release Date: 8th August 2025
Label: Self Released
Single Review
Today is the day that PAPILLON DE NUIT release their 6th single called ‘Frozen Charlotte’. And no, it’s not a song about the sweet food dish called Charlotte Royale / Charlotte Russe. Stephen Kennedy, the main progenitor of PAPILLON DE NUIT, is not a chef of gastro intestinal nourishment but one of cerebral sustenance using a multitudinous mix of talents to achieve his ultimate goal. Anyway, to get back on track, this is about the folly of vanity and has its legs set firmly in the space of Victorian morality. An accompanying video will be released on the 13th of August. You can view the video via the link below.
Sonically symmetrical is how I’d describe this track. It starts with screeching feedback and gravelly footsteps before bowed cello starts the proceedings proper. The vibe meanders in a wistful lackadaisical and martial manner, it’s almost sarcastic with a shaky head smirk, but topped with a lifetime of experience and earned wisdom. As usual this track like all the others was produced by Steve Whitfield (THE MISSION / THE CURE) at Young Thug Studios in York.
There’s space, every element used should be there, nothing added frivolously to upset the taste. By the way, that gravel sounds slightly wet and the cello brings up memories of Dakha Brakha. That cello, it’s a coaxer, a teaser, a sinewy degreaser that smooths the “groovement”. The vocals are clear, the bass minimal and relevant as is the drumming. Perfect 3:33 minutes that I’ve repeated eight times whilst writing this. Top job in my opinion. I can’t find a thing to criticise yet.
Tracklist
01. Frozen Charlotte
Line-up
Stephen Kennedy - Words, Arrangements, Additional Percussion, Vocals and Piano
Beth Veasey . Drums and Bass Guitar
Karen Amanda O’Brien - Grand Piano
Michalina Rudawska - Cello
Steve Whitfield - Production
Peter Maher - Mastering
Website
https://papillondenuit.bandcamp.com/
Cover Picture
Rating
Music: 8
Sound: 8
Total: 8 / 10
