Acclaimed Melbourne-based songwriters, Paris Wells and Finley François recently released a collaborative covers album, 'Lounge Of The Flamingo', celebrating their 20-year working relationship.
Influenced by the likes of Nouvelle Vague, Astrud Gilberto, and Cesária Évora, this collection of lush, Latin-inspired lounge tunes showcases the pair's refined artistry.
With a sexy-stillness and persistent groove throughout the LP that doesn't force the big moments, it reels you in with a confident calmness and attention to detail.
Recorded live at Frying Pan Studios, that is housed within the iconic MONA gallery in Tasmania, Wells and François were a well-oiled machine at the time of recording, admits Paris.
"The team in this project was so solid and the happy musical partnership with Finley really shines through; we are at the point of finishing each other's sentences, that sh.t takes time, this is my/ our best body of work yet."
Thematically, the album is less social commentary, and more of a reflection of Wells' life right at this moment. "This time I was determined to capture not only humour, but calm and passion and family," she says.
"I refuse to make any more 'sad vagina' music, I'm a happily married mum, sh.t can be hard but I want to give people the calm we all strive for.
"The 'Lounge Of The Flamingo' cares not about your social pages, Kardashian cages and your friends with strangers. It cares not about keeping up with the Joneses, or running away with the crowd. The Lounge only asks for your calm, so sit back, relax and enjoy the journey."
Later this month, Paris and Fin will come together onstage for a play-through of the entire album at George Lane in Melbourne (27 November).
"Think Peggy Lee meets Karen meets Astrid Gilburto," the pair share of what music lovers can expect of the performance. "'Lounge Of The Flamingo' could easily be Bad Bunny's Aussie warm-up band without wanting to speak to the manager after."
Here, the pair have some fun asking each other a few silly (and not so) questions related to the album.
Questions from Fin to Paris
What song on the album surprised you the most post recording?'You're lovely' – OMG it's so good. It can take you anywhere that track.
What TV sitcom would this album be best suited for?
'I Love Lucy'.
Where would you love to perform this album?
France. Japan. Hawaii.
Which guest would you love to have on the album, if there was a sequel?
There WILL be a sequel! I would love to have Bad Bunny singing a cha cha with me. Dream collab.
What cocktail would best suit this album?
Well the obvious one there is a 'white lady'; it's a classic cocktail that is made with gin, Cointreau or triple sec, fresh lemon juice and an optional egg white. It belongs to the sidecar family, made with gin in place of brandy. It's basically breakfast.
Questions from Paris to Fin
If the Lourve jewels thieves had to use a montage song off our album, which song would it be?'The High Road'; perfect energy for an action scene! It's got a killer drive!
We managed to avoid any swearing on the record, what is your fave French curse word?
Encule!
What's the worst fake DJing move you have seen lately?
All of them! Fewer moves, more mixing is what's needed!
What's your fave '80s TV show?
'Inspector Gadget'. There's a nerd solution for every problem.
Which billionaire would you like to see not be a billionaire any more?
All of them and Mr Jones! I believe we could end a lot of things; there's no need for this level of wealth.
Paris Wells and Finley François launch 'Lounge Of The Flamingo' live at George Lane (Melbourne) on 27 November.
