Paris Cafe
Putumayo, 2019
8/10
Putumayo keeps their tradition of releasing esteemed world music alive, and here they deliver classic French music on the appropriately titled Paris Cafe.
The elegant and agile sounds of “Douce France”, by Charles Trenet, starts the listen with playful keys and clever melodies, and Lucienne Delyle follows with the dreamy, sweeping appeal of “C’est Magnifique”
Halfway through, Norbert Slama offers us “Sous Les Ponts de Paris”, where a nostalgic approach unfolds with bare beauty, while “Gypsy Jazz Caravan’s “La Mer” recruits timeless guitar sounds with flourishing songcraft. Duo Gadjo And Their Hot Friends then delivers one of the album’s best, with the upbeat and meticulous “La Complainte de la Butte”.
Near the end, the accordions of “Flambee Montalbanaise” add much to the varied setting, while “Vous Qui Passez Sans Me Voir”, by Giorgis, uses ukulele and smooth vocals for a bare but impressive exit.
Not only are we treated to sublime and timeless music, but the packaging includes a 13 page booklet where each artists is profiled in depth, making this a must hear for those with an ear for esteemed world music.
Travels well with: Charles Trenet- La Romance de Paris; Putumayo- Joy To The World