Meet John & Jehn. Or yin and yang. Two provincial French artists, young and in love with each other, they’ve made London their home since the tail end of 2006.

Their debut album is divided into two parts: Side John and Side Jehn. Side John is more or less yang, in the main positive, bright, and masculine, well by comparison to its partner at any rate, whilst Side Jehn is yin all over: negative, dark, and feminine. Indeed, ‘You, Far Away’, the first track on “Jehn” is like a step into the night air; a descent into the maelstrom.

Kindred spirits of British Sea Power, who’ve they’ve supported, they’re not afraid to make difficult music: nightmare pop let’s call it. Consequently, it’s not always easy on the ear. Yet the sheer spikiness of it ensures John & Jehn leave their mark.

(4/5)