Grand Duchy
Petit Fours

When I accidentally learned about the existence of this album, set to be released on April 14th, I knew nothing about the solo career of the good Frank Black, aka Black Francis, former frontman of the legendary band Pixies. Just a couple of their best records, listened to and loved like one does with masterpieces. So, it cannot be said that I am a great connoisseur of the artist I am about to review (mea culpa), but this new work under the name Grand Duchy was a pleasant surprise, without a doubt.

Composed, arranged, and strummed together with his wife Violet Clark, Petit Fours is a very enjoyable exercise in electrified (synth) pop, characterized by decidedly inspired melodies, prominent guitars, and a Pixies-like bass on which bright and delightful songs rest. I imagine that hearing them on the beaches instead of those traumatizing "hits" that are systematically foisted upon us every summer would make everything more beautiful. I would gladly welcome that. A vain hope.

Nine tracks, each different from the other, for thirty-seven minutes of excellent music. Some sung (shouted!) by Frank, others by his wife, and more often, as in the electroacoustic gem Fort Wayne (perhaps the best track), by both. Worth noting is the roughest moment of the record, "Black Suit", an insistent and hoarse song over a tense and rhythmic atmosphere, and "The Long Song", reminiscent of some old Pixies glories.

Let's be clear, we are not faced with an epoch-making or masterpiece album (but how many albums really are? few), but I doubt this was the intention of the Thompson couple at the time of release. The goal, the creation of a pleasant, fun, and enduring record, has been fully achieved. The album rightfully enters the list of my favorites of 2009. And it is destined to stay there. 

In short, a beautiful album for fans of carefree pop rock (but not too carefree), albums like this should come out more often. It was needed. As for me, I suppose it's time to educate myself on the past of Boston's genius...