7/10

Ever since they first arrived, Christine & The Queens has always looked to shake up the conventional pop scene with something more inventive. After breaking through with the exceptional debut LP 'Chaleur humaine' in 2014, there was quickly more that they wanted to explore as the 2018 follow-up 'Chris' saw them take on a more masculine guise in which to express themselves. Now continuing on that trend of personal reinvention, they are now going by the new moniker Redcar to deliver their third studio album 'Redcar les adorables étoiles', a record that looks to shatter expectations once again.

Choosing to sing much of this new full-length in her native French language is certainly a fresh and courageous move, especially given her success within largely English speaking countries. But from the very start, 'Redcar les adorables étoiles' is intended to be a far more intimate release that we are merely guests to experience. Continuing to move her sound in a progressive and forward-thinking way, this new Redcar offering makes for interesting listening, but does sometimes find it difficult to create a succinct approach to its direction as it regularly flips back and forth between radio-friendly ditties and more sombre, atmospheric gems.

Despite its occasional dips throughout, 'Redcar les adorables étoiles' is another rousing entry in the Christine & The Queens saga to date. Building upon the bold and innovative aesthetic of their infancy, they are experimenting far more than almost anyone in their field, something that deserves respect and admiration.