Avec Le Temps

It's very difficult to put together a mere two-CD compilation of a man whose work spans over 60 years. French writer and singer Leo Ferre has released literally thousands of songs in his career, and this compilation offers a view of just a small but integral part of it. Ferre, who is the real art singer of the 20th century, whom Jacques Brel, Charles Trenier, Scott Walker, and many others emulated but never really paid their debt to, is an artist so far out on the fringe of what the term means that only the term "French artiste" can apply to him. He is the Picasso of music. Here, tracks from the years 1960-1973 are collected, a period when he was between the ages of 40 and 53, and at his creative peak. Here are essential poetic masterpieces in songs like "Les Anarchistes," "La Memoire et la Mer," "La Solitude," "L'Espoir," "Poete, Vos Papiers!," "La Vie d'Artiste," "Paname," "L'Oppression," the title track, and "Les Romantiques," along with many others. Through all the different musical styles and formats Ferre recorded in, his dignity and unapologetic romanticism shine through. He embodies the Francophile sense of drama, tenderness, and revolutionary fervor in each utterance. It's true that he was popular only in his native country and in French-speaking parts of Europe, but who cares? He's still a legend with more songs to his credit than virtually anyone else in the history of France's recording industry. His career has lasted longer than Charles Aznavour's and Charles Trenier's combined, and only Piaf has a bigger following. This compilation provides an excellent introduction to a master of song at the pinnacle of his popularity and his art. It can be played at virtually any time of day in any season, and whether or not you understand the lyrics makes no difference -- the spirit pours through the mix, making it not only an edifying but a stirring experience as well. For all those looking into The Divine Comedy or Brel or Walker for inspiration and a sense of the true liberated but suffering French artist, then search no further. ~ Thom Jurek