The French group Phoenix draw elements from their eclectic ’80s upbringing to arrive at a satisfying blend of rock and synthesizers. Vocalist Thomas Mars, bassist Deck d’Arcy, and guitarist Christian Mazzalai were a garage band based out of Mars’ house in the suburbs of Paris. Mazzalai’s older brother Branco joined the band on guitar when his band Darlin’ disbanded in 1995. The group got its touring start on the French bar circuit doing Hank Williams and Prince covers to drunken audiences. Two years later the band took on the name Phoenix and pressed 500 copies of a single on its own label, Ghettoblaster. The A-side was a punk rock song and the other a chugging Krautrocker, hinting at their eclectic tastes. Shortly after, they were signed to the Paris-based Source Records. Phoenix became well acquainted with labelmates Air when they acted as their backing band on several U.K. TV appearances. The result of the electronic exposure was a single called “Heatwave,” which was very similar in approach to ’70s disco.
Phoenix – Chloroform (Sleigh Bells Remix)
Phoenix – Chloroform Lyrics:
I don’t always tell the truth
They don’t mind it if you’re tall where I’m from
Anyone I find intrusive
You won’t bother if you choose me
I don’t only think of you
Eyes can tell I’m insecure, chloroform
I would rather stand if you stay
Why would I lie to you?
[Chorus:]
My love, my love, my love, my love is,
My love, my love, my love is,
My love, my love, my love, my love is,
Cruel
Buckle up, we’ll chase each other
It’s not a lot it’s just enough to matter
Anyway you want the truth is
I will marry you on tuesday
I don’t always tell the truth
If you want it you could lose, don’t bother
I don’t like it if you miss me
Why would I long for you?
[Chorus x2]
Would I long for you?
Is it up to you?
Is it up to you?
