French musician Melody Prochet, widely recognized as Melody’s Echo Chamber, possesses an extraordinary talent for collaborating with skilled artists. Her inaugural album, released in 2012, was crafted under the guidance of Kevin parker from Tame Impala.For her sophomore effort,Bon Voyage (2018),she partnered with the Swedish psychedelic rock ensemble Dungen and once again collaborated with guitarist Reine Fiske on her 2022 project Emotional Everlasting. Now, in her latest endeavor titled Unclouded, Prochet teams up with composer Sven Wunder for both production and co-writing responsibilities while also incorporating the exquisite string arrangements of Josefin Runsteen and dynamic percussion from Malcolm Catto—renowned for his contributions to DJ shadow.
A Distinctive Creative Perspective
Even amidst a variety of collaborations, Prochet consistently showcases a unique artistic perspective throughout her discography. The title of her latest album draws inspiration from a profound quote by celebrated Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki—“You must look with eyes unclouded by hate. See the good in that which is evil, and the evil in that which is good.” This philosophy permeates Unclouded as it elevates her ethereal vocals within a baroque dreampop framework into more vivid realms. Certain tracks evoke nostalgia reminiscent of ’90s groups like Saint Etienne or Lush; others are painted using botanical imagery—such as the graceful strings found in “Broken Roses,” or the delicate xylophone notes that transform “Burning Man” into an auditory journey akin to wandering through a tranquil Japanese garden.
Varied Musical Landscapes
The serene ambiance established by these melodies is abruptly contrasted by “Into Shadows,” which introduces an invigorating tempo accompanied by smooth guitar riffs. Following this lively transition, “Memory’s Underground” presents another shift featuring strings reminiscent of The Beatles’ orchestral soundscapes. While Unclouded may not boast numerous standout tracks clamoring for attention, it offers a calming backdrop ideal for introspection.