Les Imprimes - Fading Forward [LP]

Big Crown Records is proud to present the sophomore full-length from Les Imprimes, Fading Forward. Spearheaded by self taught multi-instrumentalist and producer Morten Martens, this album explores mortality, escapism, and a myriad of experiences associated with love.Martens made a tremendous impression with his highly acclaimed 2023 debut Rêverie and has since cultivated a diehard fanbase whose demographics are as wide-ranging as the influences that shape his music. He mixes tones from '60s and '70s Soul with arrangement nods to Doo-Wop records, takes drum energy from Hip-Hop, and covers the whole thing with vocal stylings from '90s & 2000s Alternative. But it is Martens' lyrics, emotion, and delivery that truly bring everything together and help him stand out from his peers. There's an infectiousness and pop sensibility in the writing that is executed with utmost class and taste, giving Les Imprimés the rare quality of immediate attraction that only deepens the more you listen.Hailing from Kristiansand, Norway, Martens plays nearly every instrument on Fading Forward, produces and arranges the album, and of course sings. "It's soul music, but I don't exactly have the soul voice," Morten explains humbly. "But I do it my own way, in a way that's mine."Album opener "You & I" is Morten's homage to his partner who sticks it out "through the chaos and the blunders" with him. Punchy drums and cascading pianos make this one a proper two-stepper and an anthem for those lucky enough to find someone who understands them and helps in the parts of life they need it. "Again & Again" slows the pace and deals with the heavier side of love & life as Martens professes his resilience through the mishaps, the heartbreak, and the let downs of love affairs gone wrong. "Untainted Love" brings the sweet side of new love center stage with a tune that plays on the title of the Gloria Jones classic. "Get Lost" leans into the metaphysical with an invitation to leave reality behind and spend time with Les Imprimés, where there's room to dream. "Only Love" is built over a gritty drum break with a chorus that is simple yet profound, and the arrangement gives it the energy of a mantra. They turn to the dancefloor on "With You," an uptempo, uplifting tune about a fleeting encounter that leaves you pining for more. Martens longs for her, but joyfully, as if just remembering such a connection is possible is what he really needed. Martens is joined by guest vocalist Ama LI on "Miss The Days," a slow burning ballad that reckons back to simpler times when love was in a better place. Fading Forward closes on a wholly somber note with "Paradise", a tune that wishes freedom and peace to a friend who passed away.In the small town of Kristanland, Norway there is a huge talent who spent most of his life laying low and playing the background. Signing to New York's Big Crown Records inspired Morten Martens to start sharing his own music. The response to his debut Rêverie pushed him right out of the studio and onto the stage and all of this has served as inspiration to push his artistry to new heights. New heights that are on full display on Fading Forward.