A Serptent's Dream

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of French jazz with Michel Godard's "A Serpent's Dream," a captivating album released in 2015. This 49-minute journey is a testament to Godard's mastery of the serpent, an ancient wind instrument, and his unique ability to blend traditional jazz with folk and world music elements. The album, released under the Intuition label, features a diverse range of tracks that showcase Godard's versatility and creativity.

"Serpent's Dream" opens with the title track, "Serpent's Dream," setting the stage for a musical exploration that spans from the introspective "Days of Weeping Delights" to the lively "Old Black Snake Blues." The album also includes a cover of "Our Spanish Love Song," a tribute to Godard's father's tune, adding a personal touch to the collection.

Recorded during the festival in Villefranche-de-Rouergue, the ensemble's performance in the Chapelle captures the essence of their live energy, making this album a true representation of their artistry. Whether you're a long-time fan of Michel Godard or new to his music, "A Serpent's Dream" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the beauty and depth of French jazz.

October 9, 2015

About Michel Godard

Michel Godard is a virtuoso French musician renowned for his mastery of the tuba and the serpent, an ancient brass instrument that predates the tuba. Born in Héricourt, France, Godard's musical journey began at a young age, leading him to become a member of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Radio-France at just 18. His career spans both classical and avant-garde jazz genres, making him a unique and versatile artist. Godard's technical prowess on the tuba is remarkable, with a warm, clear tone and an impressive ability to produce overtones, a technique known as multiphonics. He has collaborated with numerous notable musicians, including Rabih Abou-Khalil, Michel Portal, and Louis Sclavis, enriching his musical repertoire with diverse cultural influences. Beyond his performances, Godard is also dedicated to education, serving as a serpent teacher at Paris' Conservatoire national de musique since 2002. His work is a testament to his deep understanding and passion for both historical and contemporary musical traditions.