THE EDITED PRESS RELEASE: “Formed in 2003, Versari have concocted a sound that combines the jagged, abrasive edges of post-punk and post-hardcore with a thoughtful, literary vision. Having released their previous album in 2003, the Adrian Utley-produced Ostinato, Versari have continued to evolve as a band. Their emotive third album Sous la Peau is characterised by discordant, fuzz-filled guitar notes, scuzzy, driven bass lines and the seductive, atmospheric vocals of Jean-Charles Versari (vocals/guitar).
From the confrontational soundscapes of opener Des Images, unapologetically in your face, Versari set the scene for what is to come. The single Brûle perfectly encapsulates the nuances Versari have to offer as a band. A grooving, Fugazi-style bassline fills the air with menace, ambient guitar notes echoing in the distance, as Jean-Charles’ cerebral, personal lyrics fill the air. The pace quickness on the screeching Tu Te Disais, while the angular Rose offers a grimy intermission. As the record comes to a close, Némésis provides an uncompromising, energetic edge to proceedings, neatly leading into final track Plus de Tristesse. A fitting, melancholic end to a complex, passionate record.
Sous la Peau is a powerful, provocative album that is relentless from the first note to the last. Elevated further by the harrowing lyrics, and unique style, of frontman Jean-Charles, Sous la Peau is an album we can all identify with, the music effortlessly transcending borders in the process. Also featuring former Sloy member Cyril Bilbeaud (drums) and Laureline Prod’home (bass/backing vocals) formerly of Candie Prune, as well as the aforementioned Adrian Utley (guitar, synth), Versari are eager to share their socially conscious lyrics and acerbic sound.”
