Nouvelle Chanson
Nouvelle Chanson
Well-known contemporary English speaking artists who might also be termed New Chanson in that their musical style is clearly traceable to this same Chanson lineage include artists such as New York-based Rufus Wainwright, his sister Martha Wainwright (who has recorded Barbara's song 'Dis, quand reviendras-tu ?'),[3] Regina Spektor (showing French influence in songs such as 'Après moi' and 'Ne me quitte pas'), CocoRosie (originally American, now Paris-based) and London-based singer-songwriter Ana Silvera.[4]
Characteristics
Nouvelle Chanson, whilst influenced by the forefathers of French Chanson (cited above) has developed through modern influences such as rock and electronica. There is a tendency for theatricality and the adoption of personas, alongside intensely poetic lyrics incorporating surreal and metaphorical elements. Wry, intelligent humour is also often prevalent. However the defining characteristic of Chanson, both old and new, is that it focuses on the French language as vehicle and instrument. There is an emphasis on craftsmanship with many of the artists classically trained and/or having studied music academically (cf.
Subgenres
Nouvelle Chanson artists can be divided into the following genres:
- Trip-Hop/Electronica influences
- Emilie Simon and Francoiz Breut belong in this group, and Camille, though she uses few electronic effects.
- Updated Traditional Chanson
- The second group seek to refine traditional Chanson, usually accompanied by a solo guitar or piano. This includes Anais (Croze) and Pauline Croze
- Bossa Nova and Samba influenced musicians include
- Olivia Ruiz, Coralie Clement, Benjamin Biolay, Emily Loizeau, and Les Blaireux.
- Nouvelle Vague
- Artists such as Cibelle and Amel Bent are examples of the chanson form with Latin and/or African influences.
- Keren Ann, Vanessa Paradis, and Les Blaireaux represent the chanson form mediated through pop/rock sensibilities.
Literary and artistic influences
Nouvelle Chanson takes its inspiration artistically from Dada and Surrealism. Lyrically, inspiration is also drawn from fairy tales, contemporary poetry, and magical realist literature. It is also theatrical, and draws on the adoption of various personas.
See also
- Nueva canción (also known as 'Nueva Trova', 'Nuevo Cancionero' or 'Canto Nuevo')
- Nova Cançó
References
- ^ "Interview with Benjamin Biolay". Retrieved 25 November 2008.
- ^ "Dem Nouvelle Chanson entwachsen - »78s - Elbows Music Blog Aggregator". Archived from the original on 20 July 2011. Retrieved 1 December 2008.
- ^ "Martha Wainwright Discography". Retrieved 25 November 2008.
- ^ "Time Out London Review". Retrieved 25 November 2008.
- ^ "RFI Musique - - Benjamin Biolay by Juliette Gréco". Archived from the original on 9 March 2009. Retrieved 1 December 2008.