Emil Stern's "Bouquet de Succès" is a charming collection of 16 tracks that beautifully encapsulates the essence of French jazz and ragtime music from the early 1960s. Released on January 1, 1960, under the BNF Collection label, this album is a delightful journey through a variety of popular tunes of the time, each rendered with Stern's distinctive piano style.
The album opens with the lively "Les enfants du Pirée," a well-known instrumental piece from the film "Jamais le dimanche." Stern's rendition is both playful and sophisticated, setting the tone for the rest of the album. Tracks like "Papa aime maman" and "Ce soir là" showcase his ability to infuse traditional French melodies with a jazzy flair, while "Dans les rues de Bahia" and "Marina" offer a taste of international influences, blending seamlessly with the overall theme.
One of the standout tracks is "Tom pillibi," a song originally performed by Jacqueline Boyer. Stern's instrumental version is a testament to his skill, capturing the essence of the original while adding his unique touch. Similarly, "Bleu blanc blond" and "Comme au premier jour" are heartfelt pieces that highlight Stern's ability to convey deep emotion through his music.
The album also includes a few lesser-known gems, such as "Chanson pour Margot" and "Amour je te dois," which are equally captivating. "Romantica" and "Vieni vieni si..." add a touch of romanticism, while "La complainte de Mackie" and "Frappe dans tes mains" bring a sense of energy and excitement.
With a total runtime of just over 35 minutes, "Bouquet de Succès" is a concise yet rich musical experience. Emil Stern's piano playing is the heart of this album, offering a blend of technical prowess and heartfelt expression that makes it a timeless piece of work. Whether you're a fan of French jazz, ragtime, or simply enjoy well-crafted instrumental music, this album is sure to delight.
Vinylscout