Athol Brose

Released in 2016, Athol Brose serves as a bridge between Nouvelle Vague's established bossa nova identity and the more textured, atmospheric direction found on their subsequent full-length, I Could Be Happy. The EP is notable for its inclusion of the Dream Koala remix of 'Love Will Tear Us Apart,' which significantly alters the band's typical acoustic palette by introducing hazy, electronic textures and a more pronounced downtempo influence. This release maintains the project's core conceit - reinterpreting punk and new wave classics through a lens of French sophistication - but leans harder into a 'dreamy' aesthetic than their earlier, more strictly percussive work. Critically, it represents a refinement of their sound, moving away from the novelty of the bossa-cover concept toward a more cohesive, mood-focused sonic environment. It remains a fan favorite for its intimate production and the standout vocal performances that define the 'Nouvelle Vague' brand.