With 2008’s Eternal Summer, the Gypsy Nomads (now performing as Frenchy and the Punk) established their new sound. Guitarist Scott Helland had been surprising listeners for years, after leaving his hardcore punk days in the past and adopting an acoustic guitar sound that produced several noteworthy instrumental releases (Brocade). The addition of vocalist-percussionist Samantha Stephenson opens up the sound considerably. Her bilingual mix of French and English (though here about 95% French), and her Siouxsie Sioux-like tone and spirited delivery add exciting traction to this unusual duo. Elements of Eastern European cabaret, French pop, medieval meditations all converge in unpredictable ways. Stephenson’s a natural chansonnier, evoking an old-world style for “Caravan,” “Le Train” and “La Sorciere,” while throwing a wink and a tongue-in-cheek for the exuberant “Alouette” and “Subterranean Girl,” where the scales tip towards a moody form of pop music. Helland muscles through with acoustic powerchords to break up the dizzying array of riffs. Deliciously weird.