Papier Tigre - The Beginning And End Of Now

Having clearly been big subscribers to the Dischord rock 'n' roll newsletter, this bassless French trio put out their second album on the back of a celebrated showing at ATP last year. Encouragingly, rather than just aping them, Papier Tigre play a much leaner form of post-punk than many of their Washington forefathers. Whereas their eponymous debut was in closer keeping with the likes of Bluetip, this packs more groove and a considerable level of indie danceability. Restless Empire and Health and Insurance make for a vibrant, hooky opening, the match of most US post-hardcore contemporaries. Green Around The Gills gets a bit jazzier, showcasing the Frenchmen's considerable aptitude on their respective instruments, and Office Hours is a guaranteed head-nodder, provided you can follow the clever shifting time signatures. With some gloriously filthy guitar tones on display and busy, interwoven lines, the lack of a four-stringer is never overly apparent. Overall, an excellent record.