Iggy Pop's fifteenth studio album, Preliminaires, is a captivating and eclectic collection of tracks that showcases the rock singer's versatility and flair for the dramatic. Released in 2009, this album was inspired by Iggy Pop's reading of Michel Houellebecq's novel, La Possibilité d'une île (The Possibility of an Island), and features a unique blend of proto-punk, glam rock, and European pop influences.
With a runtime of just 36 minutes, Preliminaires is a concise yet impactful album that features 12 tracks, including the hauntingly beautiful "Les Feuilles Mortes" and the upbeat "I Want to Go to the Beach". Iggy Pop's distinctive vocals bring a sense of world-weariness and sophistication to the album, which is partly sung in French and features lyrics co-written or inspired by Houellebecq.
The album's sound is characterized by a mix of jazzy electronics, melancholy beats, and Iggy Pop's signature croon, which draws comparisons to Leonard Cohen's European pop-infused sound. From the opening notes of "Les Feuilles Mortes" to the closing strains of "Les Feuilles Mortes (Marc's Theme)", Preliminaires is an exciting and unpredictable ride that showcases Iggy Pop's ability to craft compelling and atmospheric music.
Overall, Preliminaires is a must-listen for fans of Iggy Pop and anyone looking to experience a truly unique and captivating album. With its blend of styles, sophisticated soundscapes, and Iggy Pop's inimitable vocals, this album is a testament to the rock singer's enduring creativity and talent.
Vinylscout