If you’ve been reading this site over the years, you’ll know that I have a deep respect for the artistry and person of Anoraak (AKA Frédéric Rivière), one of the founding members of the Nantes, France-based Valerie Collective who has gone on to become a successful nu-disco artist on Chromeo’s Juliet Records. Recently, he announced a special 10th anniversary deluxe edition digital release of his extraordinary Figure EP with a previously unheard track, along with the first-ever vinyl edition of the EP tied to Record Store Day this weekend. (The digital deluxe release hits streamers on April 24.)
Before we get into the release information, let’s dive into the deeply personal and profoundly gorgeous “For Days to Come.” It’s an early version of what would become “We Lost,” Anoraak’s staggeringly beautiful Figure collaboration with the inimitable Slow Shiver. The delicately contemplative slow-build arrangement is still here, but there are a few key differences: Anoraak sings, the lyrics are an ode to his father’s unconditional love, and the arrangement is far more piano-forward. I urge you to check it out and try not to shed some tears.
Figure at 10
I realize it’s a little weird that I didn’t plan some big interview package to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Figure, as I did with Anoraak’s debut album, Nightdrive With You. (Am I losing my edge?) That said, at least Anoraak himself is on the case. He posted today on Instagram that the album “will finally be available on… 200 hand numbered limited edition blue vinyl” for France’s Record Store Day. He’ll even be at the record store Balades Sonores in Paris to celebrate the release. If there are any left after RSD, you’ll be able to snag them online, according to the record store.
One of Anoraak’s early disco-style cuts, circa 2019, showed up on Vehlinggo Presents’ 5 Years compilation. “Panarea” has gone on to become the most popular track on the album.
