Paradis Sur Terre: A French Songbook is a captivating journey through the enchanting world of French art song, brought to life by the extraordinary talents of tenor Nicky Spence and pianist Malcolm Martineau. Released in 2016 under the prestigious Chandos label, this album is a testament to the duo's artistic chemistry and their shared passion for French mélodie.
Spence, the 2015 Opera Awards Young Singer of the Year, delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. His light-voiced approach is perfectly suited to the delicate nuances of French song, while Martineau's accompaniment is nothing short of exquisite, providing the perfect foil to Spence's vocal artistry. Together, they breathe new life into a diverse range of works, from the well-known to the obscure.
The album spans a little over an hour, featuring 25 tracks that showcase the breadth and depth of French song. Highlights include works by Debussy, such as the evocative "Les prières" and the dreamlike "Clairières dans le ciel," as well as settings of poems by Verlaine and other French poets. The program also includes lesser-known gems, such as "Les Lilas Qui Avaient Fleuri" and "Ronde d'amour," each brought to life with sensitivity and style.
Paradis Sur Terre is not just a collection of songs; it's a carefully curated exploration of the French songbook, showcasing the unique talents of Nicky Spence and Malcolm Martineau. Whether you're a seasoned fan of French mélodie or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire. With its beautiful performances and high production values, Paradis Sur Terre is a true gem in the world of classical vocal music.
2016 Chandos Records2016 Chandos Records
Tracks
Les prières: I. Oraison dominicaleAndre Caplet, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Les prières: II. Salutation angéliqueAndre Caplet, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Les prières: III. Symbole des ApôtresAndre Caplet, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: I. Elle était descendue au bas de la prairieLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: II. Elle est gravement gaieLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: III. Parfois, je suis tristeLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: IV. Un poète disaitLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: V. Au pied de mon litLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: VI. Si tout ceci n'est qu'un pauvre rêveLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: VII. Nous nous aimerons tantLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: VIII. Vous m'avez regardé avec toute votre âmeLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: IX. Les lilas qui avaient fleuriLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: X. Deux ancoliesLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: XI. Par ce que j'ai souffertLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: XII. Je garde une médaille d'elleLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Clairières dans le ciel: XIII. Demain fera un anLili Boulanger, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Trois Melodies de Verlaine, L. 81, CD 85: I. La mer est plus belleClaude Debussy, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Trois Melodies de Verlaine, L. 81, CD 85: II. Le son du cor s'afflige vers les boisClaude Debussy, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
Trois Melodies de Verlaine, L. 81, CD 85: III. L'échelonnement des haiesClaude Debussy, Nicky Spence, Malcolm Martineau
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