Few people actually know this, but I love violins in a big way. Easily my favorite instrument outside of drums, they produce some of the more varied sounds among the classics, ranging from your prototypical high pitch to something more tranquil and soothing.

When I heard French production duo SomethingALaMode‘s new album Endless Stairs I was immediately drawn to the almost Utopian use of the stringed instrument throughout. Similar to their countrymen Daft Punk, it’s the mix of time-honored sounds with the modern electronic approach that create these lasting musical successes.

The standout though has to be “Losing Game” featuring the vocals of Adam Joseph, an accomplished singer in his own right. Enticing you with the initial plucks, the cut turns into a full on smash taking you on an auditory exploration of the tricks we play on ourselves trying to capture love lost.