Review
"Racine Carrée" by Stromae is a masterful blend of electronic music, hip-hop, and chanson française that showcases the Belgian artist's unique ability to tackle heavy themes with infectious energy and lyrical depth. Released in 2013, the album explores topics such as illness, heartbreak, identity, and societal pressures, all delivered through pulsing beats and clever wordplay. Tracks like "Papaoutai" delve into paternal absence with both emotion and catchy hooks, while "Formidable" captures human vulnerability with raw honesty. Stromae's distinct vocal style and inventive production make each track stand out, creating a cohesive yet diverse listening experience. Overall, "Racine Carrée" is both thought-provoking and danceable—a rare combination that has cemented its status as a modern classic in European pop music.
Info
Racine Carrée is the second studio album by Belgian artist Stromae, released on August 16, 2013. The album was launched in the UK on October 14, 2013, and reached its US release on September 16, 2014. The album experienced major success across Europe, but had more modest chart results in English-speaking countries. In the UK, Racine Carrée peaked at number 40 on the UK Albums Chart. In the US, it reached number 126 on the Billboard 200. Racine Carrée was released through the record label Mosaert, which is Stromae's own independent label that he co-founded. The album was primarily recorded in Brussels, Belgium. Stromae himself produced the entire album, continuing to showcase his unique blend of electronic music, hip-hop, and global rhythms. The album features hit singles such as Papaoutai, Formidable, and Tous les mêmes, and solidified Stromae's reputation as a pioneering artist in contemporary European pop music.
Tracklisting
- 1. Ta fête
- 2. Papaoutai
- 3. bâtard
- 4. ave cesaria
- 5. Tous les mêmes
- 6. Formidable
- 7. moules frites
- 8. carmen
- 9. humain à l'eau
- 10. quand c'est ?
- 11. sommeil
- 12. merci
- 13. avf