Description
Marc Almond – Jacques – Vinyl Record
Jacques is an album by Marc Almond, released in 1989. It is a tribute album dedicated to the legendary Belgian singer-songwriter Jacques Brel. Marc Almond, best known as the lead vocalist of the synth-pop duo Soft Cell, explores his deep admiration for Brel’s work by interpreting and translating his songs into English. The album is a testament to Almond’s versatility as an artist and his ability to convey the emotional intensity and theatricality of Brel’s music.
Jacques consists of 12 tracks, including both direct translations of Jacques Brel’s songs and interpretations that capture the spirit of Brel’s originals. The album is marked by its dramatic and passionate delivery, showcasing Almond’s flair for theatrical performance and his deep connection to Brel’s themes of love, loss, and existential angst.
Recorded on and off over three years, through all sorts of record company and band changes, and ultimately released independently when no major label would take a chance on it, perhaps the most striking thing about this labor of love is its general consistency. Much more than that, though, Jacques turns out to be one of the best single-artist tribute records yet recorded.It was anything but a commercial cash-in, French singer/songwriter Jacques Brel had little more than a cult following in the English-speaking world, most notably through Scott Walker’s various cover versions.
Remaking two songs done earlier in his solo career, concert standby “If You Go Away” and “The Bulls,” Almond adds on ten other songs, whose subject matter alone is testimony to Brel’s abilities with lyrics both personal and political. The classic Willing Sinners line-up is mostly present throughout (Martin McCarrick’s abilities with the accordion especially come to the fore here), with plenty of orchestral players as well, serving the Gallic cabaret/pop tunes well. The most striking performances include the worker’s lament “The Lockman” and the astoundingly beautiful and lush “The Town Fell Asleep,” certainly one his best-ever recordings.
In the end, though, singling out songs from this remarkable album is nearly impossible; without any question, it’s an out-and-out triumph.
Key Tracks
“The Devil (Okay)” – An English adaptation of “Le Diable (Ça Va),” this track captures the dark, sardonic tone of the original.
“If You Need” – A heartfelt interpretation of “Ne Me Quitte Pas,” one of Brel’s most famous and poignant songs.
“The Lockman” – A translation of “Le Moribond,” known in English as “Seasons in the Sun.” Almond’s version stays true to the somber and reflective nature of the song.
“Alone” – Based on “Seul,” this track highlights Almond’s ability to convey deep emotion through his vocal performance.
“I’m Coming” – A powerful rendition of “J’Arrive,” expressing the inevitability of death and the passage of time.
“Litany for a Return” – An adaptation of “Litanies pour un retour,” showcasing the poetic and evocative qualities of Brel’s songwriting.
Almond’s dramatic and emotive vocal style is perfectly suited to Brel’s intense and often theatrical compositions. The album features both direct translations and interpretations that capture the essence of Brel’s original songs while making them accessible to an English-speaking audience. The arrangements are lush and evocative, incorporating orchestral elements that enhance the emotional impact of the songs.The translations and interpretations retain the poetic quality of Brel’s lyrics, reflecting themes of love, heartbreak, and existential reflection.
Jacques was well-received by fans of both Marc Almond and Jacques Brel. Critics praised Almond’s dedication to honoring Brel’s legacy while bringing his own unique style to the interpretations. The album is considered a successful and respectful tribute to one of the most influential chanson singers.
Marc Almond’s Jacques stands as a significant work in his discography, highlighting his versatility as an artist and his deep appreciation for Jacques Brel’s music. The album has helped introduce Brel’s work to a broader audience and remains a favorite among Almond’s fans.
For those who appreciate the music of Jacques Brel and are fans of Marc Almond’s theatrical style, Jacques offers a compelling and heartfelt tribute that showcases the enduring power of Brel’s songwriting and Almond’s interpretive talents.
Brand new, never played but not sealed in the factory plastic seal
Some Bizarre Records
Features Marc Almond of Soft Cell
German Import
Track Listin
The Devil (Okay) [Le Diable]
If You Need [S’il Te Faut]
The Lockman [L’Eclusier]
We Must Look [Il Nous Faut Regarder]
Alone [Seul]
I’m Coming [J’arrive]
Litany For A Return [Litane Pour Un Retour]
If You Go Away [Ne Me Quitte Pas}
The Town Fall Asleep [La Ville S’endormait]
The Bulls [Les Toros)
Never To Be Next [Au Suivant]
My Death [La Mort]
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