Denis Tagu, Klimperei

*300 copies limited edition* "Dis qu’t’as tort" is the latest venture from Tagubu (Denis Tagu, formerly of Hellebore, Look De Bouk, and Toupidek Limonade), realised in collaboration with Klimperei (Christophe Petchanatz, known for his work with Pierre Bastien, David Fenech, and Palo Alto, among others). The album represents a creative response to the increasing prevalence of autocracies and dictatorships across the globe, reflecting a world that is not simply changing, but rather derailing.

The title "Dis qu’t’as tort" is a linguistic play: in French, its pronunciation echoes "Dictator", though it translates as "Admit you are wrong". This clever juxtaposition serves as an oxymoron, highlighting the irony that dictators rarely, if ever, acknowledge their faults. The anger and frustration inherent in this message are channelled through purely instrumental compositions - no lyrics or spoken word are employed, as the music itself communicates the sentiment powerfully. The album features chaotic drumming, electronic textures from vintage synthesizers, distorted guitar riffs, and fragmented song structures, all of which work together to convey the intended emotional impact.

The genesis of the project can be traced back to the first term of Donald Trump’s presidency. During this period, Tagubu composed the track "Trumpet #1" for the digital compilation "No Trumps", which is available on Bandcamp (https://inpolysons.bandcamp.com/track/trumpet-1). This initial concept later evolved as Tagubu decided to develop a full-length concept album. The creative process began with recording drums, followed by the introduction  of vintage synthesizer sounds in both improvisational and  compositional styles. Subsequently, Klimperei contributed additional elements to the developing tracks.

Each track on the album is named after different autocrats, utilising puns and wordplay to reinforce the theme. The album includes satirical nods to figures such as Putin, Netanyahu, Meloni, Erdogan, Bolsonaro, Xi Jinping, al-Assad, and Kim Jong-un. In  essence, the work stands as a visceral reaction - a symbolic act of spitting out disgust - by those compelled to endure the irrationality and cruelty perpetuated by a handful of inhumane rulers.