French Exit (2014) - TV Girl

 

1. Pantyhose (2:57)

2. Birds Don't Sing (3:29)

3. Louise (3:14)

4. Hate Yourself (3:33)

5. The Getaway (3:44)

6. Talk to Strangers (2:57)

7. The Blonde (3:47)

8. Daughter of a Cop (2:33)

9. Lovers Rock (3:33)

10. Her and Her Friend (3:29)

11. Come When You Call (3:38)

12. Anjela (3:44) 

Album Duration: 40:43

Genres:  Indie pop, Alternative, Pop

Album Credits:

Brad Petering – vocals, songwriting, recording, production, mixing

Jason Wyman – recording, production, mixing, mastering

Mat Cothran – songwriting (track 8)

Dan Komin – bass and guitar (tracks 3 and 12)

Faith Harding – backing vocals (tracks 2, 4-5, 8-9, 11)

Trung Ngo – additional vocals (tracks 2 and 4)

Ally Hasche – additional vocals (track 3)

Wyatt Harmon – additional vocals (track 11)

Madison Acid – artwork design

Nathan Hoffeldt - engineering, mastering

Peter Gowland – photography (used with permission from his daughter Mary Lee Gowland)

TV Girl’s French Exit, released in 2014, is a captivating exploration of love, nostalgia, and the complexities of human relationships. The album effortlessly combines catchy pop melodies with insightful lyrics, creating an atmosphere that is both engaging and relatable. With a sound that fuses lo-fi aesthetics and dreamy instrumentals, this collection of tracks invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love and heartbreak.

The album opens with "Pantyhose," a playful and catchy introduction that sets the tone for what’s to come. The song's infectious rhythm and cheeky lyrics create an atmosphere of youthful desire and excitement, drawing listeners in from the very first note

.Birds Don't Sing,This track shifts gears slightly, presenting a more reflective take on relationships. The laid-back vibe and clever lyrics capture a sense of disillusionment, reminding us that not every love story is perfect. The catchy chorus makes it easy to sing along while contemplating its deeper meaning.

Louise is a melodic exploration of longing, encapsulating the feeling of wanting someone who seems just out of reach. The captivating hook lingers in the air, making this track a standout moment on the album.

With a more introspective tone, "Hate Yourself" dives into themes of self-doubt and internal conflict. The juxtaposition of the upbeat instrumentation with darker lyrical themes creates a unique listening experience, inviting listeners to reflect on their own insecurities.

The Getaway,This track introduces a sense of escapism, merging dreamy instrumentals with relatable themes of wanting to break free from everyday life. The combination of lighthearted melodies and thoughtful lyrics makes it a perfect anthem for anyone seeking adventure.

Talk to Strangers carries a breezy, conversational feel, resembling an inviting chat with a friend. The lyrics celebrate the beauty of human connection, making it a refreshing and uplifting listen.

A catchy tune that delves into attraction and identity, "The Blonde" showcases the band’s ability to combine engaging melodies with deeper lyrical content. The chorus is particularly memorable, encouraging listeners to embrace their own experiences with love and attraction.

Daughter of a Cop This short but impactful song tells a story, blending storytelling with catchy instrumentation. The vivid imagery and relatable themes make it a memorable addition to the album, leaving listeners wanting more.

As one of the album's standout tracks, "Lovers Rock" encapsulates the essence of love and nostalgia. The rhythmic feel and heartfelt lyrics resonate deeply, inviting listeners to reminisce about their own romantic experiences. This track truly exemplifies TV Girl’s unique sound and emotional depth.

With a balance of humor and introspection, "Her and Her Friend" examines the dynamics of relationships in a relatable way. The catchy melodies and clever lyrics make it an enjoyable listen that resonates with anyone who has navigated the complexities of friendship and romance.

Come When You Call, this melodic exploration of longing and hope enriches the album's emotional landscape. The soothing vocals and gentle instrumentals create a sense of yearning, inviting listeners to reflect on their own desires and connections.

The closing track, "Anjela," ties together the themes of love, loss, and longing that permeate the album. It leaves listeners with a lingering sense of reflection, encouraging them to carry the stories of the album with them long after it ends.

Overall, French Exit is a remarkable album that showcases TV Girl's ability to weave together catchy pop melodies with insightful, reflective lyrics. Each track contributes to a cohesive narrative, making it a memorable listening experience. "Lovers Rock" serves as a perfect entry point into this world, inviting listeners to lose themselves in the beautiful complexities of love and memory. Whether you're looking for a soundtrack to a summer romance or a collection of songs that speak to the heart, this album delivers with style and substance.