Serge Gainsbourg's debut album, "L'étonnant Serge Gainsbourg," released in 1961, is a captivating introduction to the enigmatic artist's early work. This short but sweet collection of 10 tracks offers a delightful blend of chanson, variété française, and early French pop and jazz influences, all wrapped up in a mere 25 minutes.
Gainsbourg's unique voice and poetic lyrics shine through in tracks like "La chanson de Prévert" and "En relisant ta lettre," showcasing his ability to weave words into compelling narratives. The album also features playful and witty compositions such as "Les femmes c'est du chinois" and "Le rock de Nerval," hinting at the playful and sometimes provocative nature that would become a hallmark of Gainsbourg's later work.
"L'étonnant Serge Gainsbourg" is a fascinating glimpse into the early career of one of France's most iconic artists. The album's variety of styles and themes sets the stage for Gainsbourg's future explorations in music, making it a compelling listen for both longtime fans and those new to his work.
Vinylscout