Layers

Released in late 2016, Layers serves as the definitive debut for French producer Kungs (Valentin Brunel). Following the global chart dominance of his remix of Cookin' on 3 Burners' 'This Girl,' the album was tasked with proving Brunel was more than a one-hit-wonder. He succeeded by doubling down on his signature 'sunny house' aesthetic while incorporating a surprisingly wide array of influences. The record is notable for its heavy reliance on live instrumentation - specifically the trumpet hooks that became his trademark - and a curated list of vocal collaborators like Wolfgang and Ephemerals who bring a soulful, often bluesy weight to the tracks. While it sits comfortably within the tropical house lineage of the era, Layers distinguishes itself through its French Touch heritage, favoring melodic elegance and funk-driven grooves over aggressive drops. It remains a high-water mark for the crossover between underground house sensibilities and mainstream pop appeal.