If one phrase is likely to bring most music fans out in hives it's the deplorable marketing-speak of 'chill-out.' What precisely does that mean? Music to relax / fall comatose to? Surely all music, be it banging house or Debussy, is designed to help the listener relax. 'Chill-out' sounds are a way for record companies to extract cash from accountants and actuaries desperately wanting to feel that they haven't lost their cool. Well, you probably never had it and you’re ruining the reputation of top acts like Air.

Please desist and stay in the office so that we can all go see an outfit who defined what ambient music and celestial melodiousness could achieve. Synths and computers never sound as understanding as when in the hands of these French maestros, so ignore the labels and prepare to be amazed at how they expand on the studio magnificence with their full on live show.

MARCH

17th - The Forum, London

Text: Karl O'Keefe