From the Alps to Avant Pop: Paradoxant’s ‘Deux’ Is a Wild New Chapter
Paradoxant’s new album ‘Deux’ is out via Humpty Dumpty Records, and it’s a trip—art pop with a wild pulse and a strangely grounded heart.
The Brussels-based trio, led by Antoine Meersseman (formerly of BRNS) with Romain Benard on drums and Lou Wéry on synth, flute, and vocals, sounds freer, more playful, and more alive than ever. That’s probably because Meersseman, after BRNS disbanded, literally ran for the hills and became a shepherd in the French Alps, herding 1,600 sheep and reconsidering his relationship to music.
What was supposed to be four months turned into a way of life, and ‘Deux’ reflects that recalibration. This is art made with intention of joy, and community. From the warped Eurodance post-punk Medieval madness of ‘Jamais Sans Personne’ to the drum and bass hard rock AutoTune Polynesian drift of ‘Les Abîmes,’ it’s gloriously unhinged but somehow still pop. There’s sax, bass clarinet, flute, opera vocals, and a whole lot of “wait, what just happened” moments.
The lyrics are all in French this time, short, poetic, and intentionally open-ended. Meersseman isn’t here to explain anything. He just wants to “send each other a little sweetness.” In 2025, that feels pretty punk. ‘Deux’ is chaotic, cinematic, and deeply human. Avant pop with its soul intact.
Headline photo:
Paradoxant Facebook / Instagram / YouTube
Humpty Dumpty Records Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube
