John Cale, the versatile and influential artist known for his work with The Velvet Underground, presents "Paris S'éveille," a captivating album released on November 1, 1991, under Les Disques du Crépuscule. This eclectic collection spans a variety of genres, including art rock, baroque pop, proto-punk, and singer-songwriter, showcasing Cale's diverse musical prowess.
The album opens with the title track, "Paris s'éveille," setting a tone that is both introspective and dynamic. It continues with "Sanctus: Four Etudes for Electronic Orchestra," a piece that highlights Cale's experimental side, followed by the hauntingly beautiful "Animals At Night." The album's diversity shines through tracks like "The Cowboy Laughs At the Round-Up," which offers a unique blend of storytelling and melody, and "Primary Motive," a three-part suite that demonstrates Cale's ability to craft intricate, layered compositions.
One of the standout tracks is "Booker T. (April 1967: live At the Gymnasium, New York City)," a live recording that captures the raw energy and spontaneity of Cale's performances. The album concludes with "Antarctica Starts Here," a piece that leaves a lasting impression with its atmospheric and evocative soundscape.
With a duration of 59 minutes, "Paris S'éveille" is a testament to John Cale's enduring creativity and his ability to push musical boundaries. This album is a must-listen for fans of innovative and genre-defying music.