Louane – Solo

With her new album, “Solo,” Louane takes a decisive step toward modern, commercial pop. The singer, known from The Voice and her role in The Bélier Family, now chooses a completely different direction than her earlier work. Under the skilled production of Tristan Salvati, known for his work with international stars like Dua Lipa and Angèle, she presents a collection of fourteen tightly produced pop tracks.

The track “La Pluie” sets the tone for the album right away: infectious beats and a production that seamlessly aligns with today’s international pop scene. It’s a song that lodges itself in your mind and doesn’t leave—a true earworm, which seems to be precisely the intent. The production is crystal-clear and modern, featuring synthesizers and beats that fit perfectly within the current radio landscape.

One of the album’s highlights is the collaboration with P3GASE on “Soleil.” Here, we catch a fleeting glimpse of that ethereal, characteristic voice that made Louane so unique during her breakthrough. It’s a rare moment of recognition for fans of her earlier work, even if the musical context is entirely different. The chemistry between the two artists, who have been collaborating since a tour in 2008, is still palpable.

Where the album excels is in its accessibility. This is music that works perfectly as a soundtrack for a long drive or a carefree summer day. The tracks are professionally crafted, showcasing that Louane knows exactly what she wants: to align with the international pop scene. Yet, this is also where the album falters. Those who hoped for the emotional depth of her duet “Derrière le Brouillard” with Grand Corps Malade will be disappointed.

The album is expertly made and will undoubtedly find its way to a broad audience. The question, however, is whether this is the right artistic choice for a singer who has proven she has much more to offer. Her voice, which was so beautifully highlighted in tracks like “Je Vole,” is now mainly used as an instrument in a larger production, rather than as the beating heart of her music.

“Solo” is a solid pop album that does exactly what it’s meant to: entertain and immerse listeners in a world of catchy melodies and modern production. Yet, for an artist with Louane’s potential, this feels like a safe choice. Hopefully, on her next album, she’ll dare to choose a direction that does more justice to her unique voice. The production is tight, and the songs are catchy, but we miss the authenticity and emotional depth that makes Louane so special. An enjoyable album that, however, doesn’t fully utilize the potential of this talented artist. (Jan Vranken) (7/10) (Island Def Jam)