Picture this: it’s a crisp morning, you’re sipping coffee, and the smooth, shimmering sounds of early ‘80s sophistipop fill the air. That’s the vibe Le Concorde’s latest single, “Morning By Morning,” delivers straight to your soul. Dropped as the third single from their upcoming album Second Mansions, this track is a mellow yet captivating addition to the LA-based art-pop project’s repertoire. If you’re a fan of lush melodies, introspective lyrics, and that polished ‘80s aesthetic with a modern indie twist, this one’s for you. Let’s dive into why “Morning By Morning” is the perfect teaser for what’s to come from Le Concorde’s highly anticipated LP, set to release on September 19, 2025.
A Mellow Gem with Sophistipop Swagger
“Morning By Morning” dials back the energy from Le Concorde’s first two singles but doesn’t skimp on the charm. Led by songwriter Stephen Becker, the track channels the glossy, refined sound of ‘80s sophistipop—think The Blue Nile or Prefab Sprout—with its layered production and evocative melodies. The song feels like a reflective stroll through a city at dawn, blending airy synths, subtle guitar riffs, and Becker’s emotive vocals. It’s less punchy than its predecessors but brims with that signature Le Concorde elegance, making it a perfect fit for fans of indie pop with a retro heart.
The production is pristine, thanks in part to legendary Scottish producer Calum Malcolm, whose work with The Blue Nile and Prefab Sprout brings an authentic sophistipop sheen. Add to that an all-star lineup—keyboardist Roger Joseph Manning, Jr. (Jellyfish, Beck), drummer Ash Soan (Seal, Trevor Horn), bassist Vinzenz Benjamin (ABC, Paul Young), and vocalist Doris Brendel—and you’ve got a track that’s as musically rich as it is emotionally resonant. The lyrics, while introspective, carry a poetic weight, hinting at themes of renewal and quiet revelation, perfectly matching the song’s serene yet sophisticated vibe.
Who Is Le Concorde?
For the uninitiated, Le Concorde is the brainchild of Stephen Becker, an LA-based songwriter who’s been flying the flag for art-pop since the mid-2000s. Drawing inspiration from UK icons like Scritti Politti and The Psychedelic Furs, Becker crafted a sound that marries high-style ‘80s pop with indie sensibilities. Over the years, Le Concorde has released music through iconic indie labels like March Records, What Are Records, and Le Grand Magistery, earning a cult following among fans of polished, thoughtful pop.
Their upcoming album, Second Mansions, promises to be a star-studded affair, featuring heavyweights like Pino Palladino, Paul Jackson, Jr., and Jon Auer, alongside the core ensemble from “Morning By Morning.” Becker’s ability to assemble such a talented crew speaks to his vision and credibility in the indie music scene. The album’s lead single, “Corpus Christi,” already set the stage with its lyrical depth and miraculous imagery, and “Morning By Morning” keeps the momentum going with its more subdued but equally captivating energy.
Tapping into Today’s Music Trends
Sophistipop is having a moment again, with artists like The Weeknd and Dua Lipa channeling ‘80s-inspired sounds into modern pop. Le Concorde fits right into this resurgence, offering a fresh take that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The genre’s emphasis on lush production and introspective lyrics resonates with today’s listeners, who crave authenticity in a world of algorithm-driven playlists. “Morning By Morning” taps into this trend, delivering a sound that’s polished yet personal, making it a standout for indie pop playlists and late-night drives alike.
The track’s release also comes at a time when indie artists are leaning heavily into DIY distribution to reach global audiences. Platforms like DistroKid have made it easier than ever for artists like Becker to share their music with the world, and Le Concorde’s polished production proves that indie doesn’t mean low-budget. If you’re an artist inspired by Le Concorde’s journey, DistroKid is a game-changer for getting your music on Spotify, Apple Music, and beyond. Plus, you can score a 7% discount on your membership with this link: https://distrokid.com/vip/seven/2058328. It’s a simple way to amplify your reach and keep more of your earnings.
Why You Should Listen
“Morning By Morning” is a testament to Le Concorde’s ability to craft music that’s both timeless and timely. Its mellow sophistication makes it a versatile listen—perfect for unwinding or diving deep into its lyrical layers. The track’s production is a masterclass in balancing retro influences with modern flair, and Becker’s songwriting shines through in its quiet intensity. Whether you’re a longtime fan of sophistipop or just discovering the genre, this single is a must-add to your playlist.
Get Ready for Second Mansions
With Second Mansions dropping on September 19, 2025, Le Concorde is poised to make a big splash in the indie pop world. If “Morning By Morning” is any indication, the album will be a lush, star-studded journey through Becker’s art-pop vision. I’m already counting down the days—what about you? Drop your thoughts on “Morning By Morning” in the comments below. Are you feeling its mellow vibes, or are you hoping for more high-energy tracks on the album?
For artists out there dreaming of sharing your own music, take a page from Le Concorde’s book and get your tracks out to the world. DistroKid makes it easy to distribute your music to major platforms, and that 7% discount is a sweet bonus: https://distrokid.com/vip/seven/2058328. Keep creating, keep sharing, and let’s keep the indie pop scene thriving!
