Posted by Chalumeau arrives with a smoky cocktail of jazz sophistication and raw honesty that we didn’t know we needed. The duo’s latest single “Lies” isn’t just another breakup song – it’s a masterfully crafted commentary on our collective willingness to be deceived, wrapped in a deliciously noir package that would feel right at home scoring a late-night crime thriller.
Katherine Bergeron’s vocals drip with knowing confidence as she delivers lines like “People are sheep, they don’t know their own minds” over Butch Rovan’s lush, Benny Goodman-inspired horn arrangements. The track started life as a personal exorcism of past relationships but evolved into something far more ambitious – a swing-infused protest song that manages to feel both timeless and urgently contemporary.
What sets “Lies” apart is its meticulous attention to detail. Recorded in their home studio, the track showcases Rovan’s impressive versatility as he single-handedly builds a full horn section that would make any big band proud. The production maintains an intimate feel despite its sophisticated arrangements, creating a sound that’s both expansive and deeply personal.
The duo’s academic backgrounds (both are professors) shine through in their intellectual approach to songwriting, but “Lies” never feels didactic. Instead, it grooves with the kind of authentic swagger that can’t be manufactured, calling to mind the sophisticated protest music of Nina Simone while carving out its own distinct identity.
The accompanying Citizen Kane-inspired lyric video adds another layer of commentary about media manipulation and truth-bending, proving that Chalumeau understands how to make every element of their art serve a larger purpose. It’s rare to find music that works equally well as both social commentary and pure entertainment, but “Lies” threads that needle with remarkable precision.
With more releases planned and a full album titled Blue on the horizon, Chalumeau is positioning themselves as a unique voice in contemporary indie music. “Lies” suggests they’re more than ready for the spotlight – assuming we’re all ready for some uncomfortable truths served with a side of brass and class.