France has a long history of mixing poetry with music to produce sexy sounds, and Michel Houellebecq carries on this tradition with Présence Humaine. Like Gainsbourg before him, Houellebecq’s deep voice lathers slowly as down-tempo keyboard funk lays the backdrop. The mix of sounds throughout keeps things going in the right direction and there are surprises at every corner. “Celibataires” begins with Selling England-era Genesis keys before turning into a captivating techno beat. If Bacharach did dance music, it might sound somewhat like “Derniers Temps,” as handclaps and electronic drums dance around Houellebecq’s crisp delivery. A perfect evening treat, Présence Humaine is sure to warm up a few bedrooms this summer.
(Tricatel)Michel Houellebecq
Présence Humaine
BY Jon BartlettPublished Aug 2, 2000