Every now and then, an act comes along that completely redefines what I thought was possible in electronic music. For me at Audio Groover, that act is the French duo Polo & Pan.
Composed of Paul ‘Polo’ Armand-Delille and Alexandre ‘Pan’ Grynszpan, this Parisian pair doesn’t just make music; they craft whimsical, sun-drenched sonic journeys that feel instantly fresh and forward-thinking. Their style is a captivating blend of vintage tropicalia, French touch elegance, and playful, sometimes absurd, sound design.
A Sound Like No Other
If you’re tired of the same four-on-the-floor monotony, Polo & Pan is the antidote. Their tracks are packed with unexpected elements:
- Retro-Futuristic Rhythms: They seamlessly weave together disco grooves, bossa nova shuffles, and hypnotic house beats.
- Childlike Whimsy: Picture sampling from old French films, whimsical vocal snippets, and instruments that sound like they belong in a cartoon soundtrack.
- Cinematic Scope: Their music has an incredibly visual quality, often evoking images of exotic locales, vibrant street parties, or dreamy childhood memories.
The Groover’s Hook: “Jacquadi”
A perfect example of their unique genius is the track “Jacquadi.” This is not a tune I’ll hear on every mainstream dance floor, and that’s precisely why I adore it.
“Jacquadi” is a masterclass in controlled chaos and infectious rhythm. The foundation is a warm, slightly dusty house beat, but it’s the layering that makes it special. You have a repeating, almost nonsensical vocal loop (“Jacquadi…“), twinkling, playful synth melodies, and a hypnotic, slightly off-kilter energy. It’s eccentric, it’s joyous, and it demands my attention. It’s the sound of a truly uninhibited spirit in electronic music.
While their style might not be for everyone, I firmly believe Polo & Pan are providing something truly necessary in the modern musical landscape—a sound that is inventive, joyful, and completely unafraid to be different.