I'm on my way to see the second most important man in my life: my hairdresser.
In the car, a tune starts playing, reminiscent of the Pet Shop Boys, the song yet unfamiliar to my ears. It is the Pet Shop Boys. The radio host announces it as a new release from the iconic duo.
The boys in the salon
Later, I share this discovery with Markus, my hair maestro. His eyes light up: "Yes, indeed! The boys are dropping a whole album today." Without hesitation, he fills the salon with their latest creation, "Nonetheless."
As the melodies fill the room, we nod in agreement: instantly recognizable, yet refreshingly novel. The music exudes an infectious energy, transporting me back to a concert at Zurich's Volkshaus, ages ago: Great music, great mood, and a sea of handsome men, mostly gay (a bummer for me, but a delight for them).
As Markus tenderly takes care of the back of my head, he shares his insights (he's in the know): James Ford, the producer behind this gem, has worked on several Depeche Mode albums. The result? Impeccable production, blending electronic beats and sounds (wouldn’t be the Pet Shop Boys without) but also with a symphony of strings and brass, from trumpets to cellos.
Feeling the youth
And on one thing, we wholeheartedly agree: Neil Tennant's voice remains timelessly great, wrapping around you like a warm, velvety embrace. When Neil and Chris croon, "You are my boy," you believe in their youth, regardless of their age far beyond 60. Just as youthful as one feels after a hairdresser salon visit.
The places to listen: Linktree Nonetheless
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It sounds like the Pet Shop Boys haven't missed a beat in their extraordinary ability to create great dance music!
And who knew that Nathalie Weider was such a talented journalist in addition to her exquisite singing voice? I know now!