Artist: Asylum Party Album: Picture One

Year: 1988
Duration: 25:50

A of Asylum Party's Picture One: An Underrated Post-Punk Masterpiece

Post-punk is undoubtedly one of the most influential genres in modern music, with bands such as Joy Division, The Cure, and Siouxsie and the Banshees paving the way for countless acts in the alternative and indie scenes. However, one band that often goes overlooked in this genre is France's Asylum Party, and their 1988 album Picture One. In this post, we'll be taking a of Picture One, exploring the band's history, the album's genre, the best tracks, and the most innovative aspects of the record.
First, let's start with a brief history of Asylum Party. Formed in 1985 in Lyon, France, the band consisted of guitarist-vocalist Philippe Planchon, bassist-vocalist Thierry Sobézyk, and drummer Pascale Macé. Their sound was heavily influenced by the post-punk/new wave scene happening in the UK, particularly Joy Division, The Chameleons, and Bauhaus. Their first album, Borderline, was released in 1987 and gained moderate success in the French underground scene. Picture One, released the following year, was their second and final album.
Picture One displays the band's signature sound of cold, driving, post-punk with heavy basslines, reverb-drenched guitars, and haunting vocals. The record creates a moody atmosphere with introspective lyrics and dark soundscapes. However, the record doesn't just rely on the post-punk sound. There are moments of experimentation, such as the reggae influence on Misfortunes and the instrumental The Desert, which features Middle Eastern-influenced guitar work and percussion.
As for the best tracks on the album, it's hard to choose just a few. Julia is a standout track with its catchy chorus and danceable rhythm. Together in the Fall showcases the band's knack for crafting haunting ballads. Soar is an upbeat, jangly standout with a catchy guitar riff. The Sabbath is another great track, with its brooding atmosphere and intense guitar work. However, the album is best enjoyed as a full experience, as each track flows effortlessly into the next, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.
One of the most innovative aspects of Picture One is the band's use of atmosphere. The record is full of spacious, reverb-heavy production that perfectly captures the mood and feel of the songs. The use of echo and delay on the vocals adds an ethereal quality to the lyrics, creating an almost dreamlike state. The instrumentation is also noteworthy, with the bass and drums interlocking to create propulsive grooves, while the guitar adds texture and atmosphere to the mix.
However, despite the album's strengths, it is not without its flaws. While the use of atmosphere is a strength, it can also become a weakness, as some tracks can feel repetitive and drag on for too long. Additionally, while the band's post-punk sound is impressive, it can also become predictable at times, with some tracks blending together.
In conclusion, Asylum Party's Picture One is an underrated post-punk masterpiece that deserves more attention. The album is a showcase of the band's strengths, with its haunting atmosphere, driving basslines, and catchy melodies. While it may have some drawbacks, such as repetitive tracks and predictable sound, it is still a must-listen for fans of the post-punk genre. If you're a fan of Joy Division, The Cure, or any other post-punk/new wave band, give Asylum Party a listen- you won't be disappointed.
In conclusion, Asylum Party's Picture One is an underrated post-punk masterpiece that deserves more attention. The album is a showcase of the band's strengths, with its haunting atmosphere, driving basslines, and catchy melodies. While it may have some drawbacks, such as repetitive tracks and predictable sound, it is still a must-listen for fans of the post-punk genre. If you're a fan of Joy Division, The Cure, or any other post-punk/new wave band, give Asylum Party a listen- you won't be disappointed.