Reviews (page 4 of 7)
Seems nice
Definitely not my music normally, but found it interesting nonetheless; more so than expected. Some of the chansons feel cliche, but liked Le Plat Pays en Amsterdam.
Absolute impressive, but - sorry - not my taste
This man seems to be very passionate about his singing, and I respect that.
Ok. Of its time.
Muy expresivo e intenso. No entendía nada pero me transmitía mucho
It was ok
This is a pretty good record to have on while you’re preparing a pasta dinner for the family. I’m not sure if there are many other scenarios in which I’d listen to this, but it was enjoyable.
A really good live.
Great voice with real emotional grit. Amsterdam is a strong opener. Dramatic big band production. Le Plat Pays has beautiful strings. Overall a good dinner party sort of album elevated by Jacques powerful vocals and inflections.
Pleasant enough, I wouldn't necessarily switch away I don't think, but I wouldn't say I particularly enjoyed it.
No idea what he's saying, but was a surprisingly enjoyable listen.
6/10… french pop / chanson
Obligatory 3 star rating for live albums, which of course, shouldn't be included on this list.
Listened in the truck via YouTube music. I had never heard of this guy and had no idea what to expect when starting this up. Based on the cover I figured it was jazz, but it was more a cross between a Sinatra and Neil Diamond. Other than the sound of the crowd which was very loud at the beginning of the record, the rest sounded really good for a live record from 1964. Not something I would have chosen to listen to on my own, but not bad either. I guess that’s the whole point of the list.
Very theatrical, pretty good, -1 point for being a live album
I can see myself in the 60s smoking a cigarette drinking some wine and seeing this live
Idk what he's talking about, but it sounds like a good time. 3.
Personal enjoyment: 3/5 Relevance to this list: 4/5
Theatrical French singing
Good fine alright!
Very, very, French.
Good live album by a great performer.
The cheering and clapping is rather loud but the music was somewhat nice.
French sounds great in song, although it seems he talks more than sings. but man a lot of this kinda blurs together, live crooning is fine, but I can only take so much warbling and mandolin and strings. Whimsical here and there but unremarkable.
Ok an older French singer. Dude sings with emotion that's for sure. Alright I read the wiki before finishing the album, I don't usually do this. Turns out he is a Belgian man singing songs that sound aggressively French. It feels like he is moving across the stage with his mic and a baguette swinging the bread around like he is going to assault someone with it while smoking a cigarette. No clue what the lyrics are. Doesn't stop me from enjoying it. Dude seems like he would be a good showman.
classic and light french pop music from the 60s.. well, i say it's light but it's quite the opposite in terms of mood. is this the french equivalent to frank sinatra? it's giving a similar energy, at least. this is a very theatrical album, brel really performs in such a electric and dramatic way, singing each lyric with passion when he's on stage. life and death, violence, and a unabashed flair that this guy only can do. it's.... something alright. i can't get used to this sound at all. the uber-european sound paired with the dramatic lyric material and way he sings... it doesn't click with me at all. at times it sounds like stereotypical french music, one song having a few "hon-hon-hons" here and there.
very french
Maybe if I was French I'd understand this more, but it's just not that interesting
That was very French. I enjoyed this album even if I didn't understand a word Monsieur Brel sang. I probably would have enjoyed it much more were it not a live album, in this instance I don't think hearing the audience reaction added much to the experience (except for one moment where the audience began rhythmically clapping). Other than that: more of this, please. Favorite track: "Les timides"
I wasn't expecting this one, amazing singing!
Listens: 4 Standout Tracks: Amsterdam Amsterdam is a crazy strong opener. I was blown away by both the power of the song itself and the audience's reaction to it. Totally the highlight of the album. Other than that, its short, sweet and to the point. I would give it a 4 if I understood French and could better appreciate the lyrics. 3.5
Turns out this is an amazing album to bike to. Unfortunately didn't understand a word of it
Glad I listened to this, it is a great vocal performance. I do feel like I would have enjoyed it more though if I was better at French. I recognized the Tango song, but everything else was new to me.
Hab kein Wort verstanden, aber klang nett
Really liked the first track, rest of it was good i guess but not my cup of tea
A fun puce of cultural history. I think that even non-French speakers can appreciate some of the wordplay, just from the sounds of the words. Not an album I’m dying to listen to again but I don’t regret spending a day with it.
Yeah, no. This must be French or Italian. Not my cup of tea. But not the worst on this list. 3/5.
Overall, it sounds pretty good and very theatrical. I would have enjoyed it more if I understood the language, although the instrumentation seemed pretty good for a live album. Favourite Track(s): Les jardins du casino Least Favourite Track(s): Les vieux
Clearly a lyrical album, sung by a pleasant voice with excellent diction. But rather wasted on someone whose only language is English. My O’level French did have me concentrating hard on translating as much as I could. Fish eyes, dancing midget, heart of an old wife, veneered mountain. Ah Amsterdam I understood that bit. I can’t in all conscience give this a 1, but in reality it isn’t an album meant for my ears. Just going to bung it an average score and move on.
IDEK i think there is something lost in translation here. maybe serge gainsborg really liked him... cant tell if its opera influenced or a french frank sinatra wannabee.
Старая европейская эстрада во всей своей мощи.
That voice.
I’m probably not turning it on myself but VIVE JACQUES BREL!! Sounds like he spits a lot while singing…
Not something I'd typically listen to but I appreciated it. His voice is super powerful and the instrumentation really emphasizes it.
The first half of this is great, very passionate singing. Wish I understood it though, I have heard he's one of the world's greatest songwriters. Second half was just ok Also side note, why does "Le plat pays" sound so familiar?
An interesting change of pace from the usual stuff served up. Ultimately though it was nice for a play through but won’t be revisiting.
this was probably a very pleasant evening if you had been there in person, but as a recording it's just fine. I'm always happy when some non-English music comes up, and i had never heard of Jacques Brel, but looking into him more, i definitely agree with his significance and inclusion, especially given his relative low profile within the English speaking world-- to me, getting more ears on artists like this should be the point of the book. unfortunately, I'm just lukewarm on the actual music
very french
Not my thing but I can appreciate it....I guess. It's musical wallpaper to me.
This actually had catchy, harmonious rhythm. I was pleasantly surprised.
Una de las mejores demostraciones de chanson française. Jacques Brel lo da todo en su interpretación, a caballo entre un concierto convencional y una obra de teatro. La orquesta también es excelente, con esa pasión típica del tango. Aunque no me haya enterado de mucho, las letras también tienen fama de ser buenas y muy ingeniosas. Pero la voz y la pasión de Brel ya lo dicen todo por sí mismas. Más música del mundo y menos Britpop, por favor.
Starts great but after a while i lost a bit my interest...As I love the hits from Brel, I was a bit dissappointed, especially because this is a live album...and Brel is one of the all time great performers...An artist who leaves his heart en soul on stage...
Intense and powerful voice! I need to learn French 🥖
Not my jam but interesting, can see how this influenced artists like Bowie and Leonard Cohen
Sounds very theatrical, I don't understand a word, but it feels like acts on a play. The orchestra sounds very clean and sharp, it has a really nice production. Unbelievable it was recorded live in 1964
This was fun. Felt like I was in a small cafe in Europe.
It’s not my cup of tea but it wasn’t made for me.it has personality and melody which is more than I can say about a lot of albums I’ve heard on this list.
this was nice, but i only really enjoyed it passively. i don't think it's the language barrier that puts me off, i've enjoyed other non-english music on this list just fine. maybe this just wasn't the most engaging music for me
Chanson. Lyric driven French music. It's hard to judge this without understanding the nuances of the language, since he's known for his wit and turn-of-phrase and it's hard to appreciate explicitly lyric-driven music in a language you don't understand.
Very interesting listen, almost feels incomplete without some sort of visual component, since the poetry being spoken seems to have some physical elements to it. Makes me with I understood French, because all I can say is that this was odd but intriguing. Top tracks: Amsterdam, Tango funèbre, Les timides
Typical 60s soft pop. Only really unique thing about it is the country of origin.
Listened through once, it’s pleasant though not sure I’d revisit
Historically, kinda cool. Would I choose to listen to it again, probably not.
It’s fine for background music in a French patisserie, but doesn’t do much more than that.
Super powerful vocal led songs. If you are in the mood, fantastic choice. If you are not, everything kinda sounds like the crescendo from My Way
Understandable French chansons
From my research, the most impressive moments of this album were best witnessed in person: clenched fists, hunched shoulders, wild eyes, gasps for air, and physically collapsing on stage. I imagine that fitting well with all the accordion.
I like a lot of non-English pop from the 60s...particularly from France, Italy, and Brazil. You can add this Belgian to the list.
Brel certainly has an emotional delivery but there's also some humour. Can see the influence he had on Scott Walker
My o-level French can't keep up which is a shame because he sounds like he means it.
I assume it's witty, which is totally wasted if you don't speak the language properly. Is he the French Jake Thackeray, or is Jake Thackeray the English Jacques Brel? Anyway, I prefer Thackeray from a subjective point of view that I understand the lyrics.
Je n'ai pas compris un seul mot, mais j'ai adoré la passion et l'esprit français.
Beautiful, fun, I wish I knew what he was saying :/
I’d heard of Brel in so much as he was an influence on Bowie, Leonard Cohen and Scott Walker but had never actually listened to him. It was interesting and enjoyable, the French have this unique singing genre that I think you have to be French to truly appreciate but non the less I liked it.
It's pretty entertaining reading through the reviews of people who didn't bother to dedicate two measly minutes to educating themselves about Jacques Brel. How do you get through 1089 albums -- many of which you're not going to know ahead of time -- and make no attempt to learn anything along the way? If you're not trying to broaden your horizons, why are you even doing this? That said, this is the type of thing I'm here for. I was unaware of Jacques Brel and his influence, and after having spent some time reading his Wikipedia, I'm happy that I've learned something today.
I mean, you know… it’s a vibe. Practically a cliche, with the accordions and all. I do speak French well enough to get the gist of the lyrics, which helps me to appreciate this. He’s super well known in France, but in my opinion if a classic French singer was going to be included I would have voted for Charles Trenet. Also, I’m no Brel expert, but I’m willing to bet this is not his best album.
What a French crooner! The lyrics are lost on me, but the quality of his voice really is special. Would recommend this one to curious music types.
7/10
Can’t complain too much at 28 minutes
This was okay. Simpsons: No
I can't tell if I'm lauging at this guy or with this guy but I kinda enjoyed it and he seemed fun. Listening to a guy who's known for his wit and not understanding the language is certainly a barrier but I had a good time with Jacques.
Probably worth it for Amsterdam alone.
it was just French 👍🇫🇷🥖
Music is good but lyrics in French. Sorry I can’t speak French.
I don’t know what he is saying but what a performer!
Dude's passionate. I'll give him that. It's kinda cool. It's something I imagine playing on my parents giant record player/radio/tv console when I was a kid. I've really no need to listen to this again, though.
A live album where you can feel the intensity of the performer, and the love from the audience. It is clear Mr. Brel could do no wrong on this night.
I'm sure I've heard plenty of references to Jacques Brel (though now I think about it, many of those references may have actually been to Bertolt Brecht, who is apparently not the same person...), and I've definitely heard an anglicised version of 'Amsterdam' before, so this is a nice opportunity to join the dots and get a fuller picture of the man. I can't help but feel I'm missing something by not understanding the lyrics, but the music and voice is so evocative that it paints a pretty vivid picture (of jaunty western European town squares, mainly) in my mind regardless . And anyway, the audience sound like they're absolutely loving it, so it must be alright.
This doesn't particularly speak to me, but it's clearly influential and all that. I'm totally neutral on this one. And I don't know any French (although I generally ignore lyrics so that shouldn't matter).
Nice and short. Reminded me of Scott Walker - in fact, he covered "Amsterdam" (so did Bowie!)
This is exactly the sort of cliche French music that people think of in stereotyped cartoons or films or whatever. It does have a cinematic feeling. Very Wes Anderson. Also kind of reminds me of Frank Sinatra at points too I dont have a huge amount to say really, I'll be getting much less out of this as I don't speak a word of French unfortunately. Still cool to see something that isn't in English on the list Highlights: Le Plat Pays
Okay dokey, French language show tunes today, not sure how to rate this😆, an indifferent ⭐⭐⭐ I think...
"Olympia 1964" is the second live album by Belgian singer and actor Jacques Brel. The Wiki-listed genre is chanson which interpreted for this time frame is a style of French pop music which emerged in the 1950's and 1960's. Gérard Jouannest was the ensemble leader and François Rauber was the orchestra conductor. The album produced by Jean-Marie Guérin. Audience handclapping opens the album and "Amsterdam." Brel singing with a strong voice in French. A melancholic tone with a piano and what sounds like an accordion. A very emotional and theatrical performance by Brel as he sings about prostitutes hanging out in a neighborhood. "Les Jardins Du Casino" begins with horns, percussion and bells. It's very 30's/40's soundtrack sounding. Pace changes. A translation to the garden of the casino. The album end with Brel singing a cappella in "Le Plat Plays." An ode to his native Belgium. Strings accompany Brel. A thunderous applause at the end. Not my usual music style to listen to but this was fine. Brel has a strong, forceful and theatrical voice. The music had a soundtrack feel to it. The overall music tone ranged from romantic to theatrical to playful. Pace changes within songs kept things interesting. I can see why he was a popular singer in the 1950's through the 1970's.
One or two total classics, but not a brilliant album.
Certainly a committed and convincing singer, though in a seriously old school style. One wishes one knew what he was singing about. (Note to editors: nobody cares that Scott Walker covered any of these songs.)
Like singing in French
Couldn't understand a word except for Amsterdam. Found it to be pleasant regardless. 6/10.
Pleasant French songs
Look at that french looking mf. Might be a N/A. I'm reading this genre is lyric driven and I don't speak french. I do appreciate getting some foreign language albums though.
Definitely a fun listening experience. Genuinely, I thought Les Vieux was a fantastic song. Translating that line for line was eye opening compared to its happy sounding progression I wouldnt say that Chanson is my style, but its a really effective, story telling genre. Operas not too distant cousin 😆
Hmm... yes... not typically my thing, and I couldn't understand anything he was singing, but OK. Done and done!
I quite enjoyed this, but I do have a soft spot for showtunes, and as a non-French speaker, this was quite musical theatre in feel and delivery. The audience is certainly into it.
Not what I'd usually listen to but actually somewhat enjoyable, starts off strong but in my mind fades off from there.
Completely fine, but also completely unremarkable. More interesting as a study of Jacques Brel the celebrity than Jacques Brel the musician. I have no strong feelings other than I'm reasonably convinced that I can find better recordings of Brel playing these songs on other albums. Why is this on the list?
I'm having to use my better judgment as a ballast against heaping praise on the relief of not listening to more dad rock. This has cool thoroughly written arrangements! Long, interesting melodic lines that interact in surprising ways with the accompaniment! I know chanson isn't going to be everybody's cup of tea, the theatricality of it still makes me leave my guard up, but this feels way closer to being representative of the creative explosions within 1960s pop than anything we've had on the list so far. You can see where this would be in conversation with pet sounds (even if it's not nearly as radical in its construction). I'm going to put on air of understanding anything about the history of chanson and "pop chanson" here and take a wild stab that Jacques Brel has more of a foot in the past of historical chanson and it's renaissance roots than Serge Gainsbourg and some of the versions of the genre big with hipster music majors nowadays. Even starting with Greensleeves, one of the oldest surviving melodies in the entire musical canon gives a sense of historical heft and context here. The starry-eyed version of me that has a cultural fascination with the 60s wants to see his impassioned bellowing as representative of some historical crossroads, a large ship of cultural tradition being forcefully turned toward modernity and musical globalisation. I think a more sober-minded analysis probably points toward this being only a few nudges to the left of Lawrence Welk music, old wine in new bottles not really interested in fresh looks at old arrangements and idioms but simply providing slightly more muscular and gritty conveyances of ideas we've already heard. My occasional disillusionment with a lack of originality here does not dim the many laudable and lovely elements of this album. Tracks like tango funébre have some insane playing from the background musicians, the musette on this track in particular is wild, the woodwind counterpoints are as clean as a whistle. On my favorite track on the album, le plat plays, a woozy chromatic chord progression softens gradually with a surprisingly affecting theremin solo until the gentle strings come in at the end to carry it home. It feels uncharacteristically fresh in its harmonic language from the rest of the album, this sounds like something off of moon pix at some points. And even brel's lone vocal trick of getting louder and raspier as the track goes on is reasonably well-restrained here. Even some of the immediately stupid-sounding tracks here like Les jardins du Casino sound like they'd be fun as shit to play in the pit orchestra for. There's no cheap extended instrumentation here, everything is written out in full with expected mid-century rigor, and against my more cynical nature it makes the whole album shine more than it has any right to. Despite the elements of real care and creativity that pop up here, I suspect I'll be less than gracious about Brel when I think back on this album. I think of other live albums from vocalists of this era: James Brown live at the Apollo, Sam Cooke live, even Tom Jones live at the talk of the town. Maybe those are preposterously large figures to compare brel to, but my mind can't help but picture how much assured and rich the vocal choices are compared to what's given here. It just doesn't match up to what this era could do. Make this an album of true originals, keep the aces orchestra, and find a more talented singer. Then you've got a five star album on your hands
First of all, thank fuck for an album that isn’t dad riffs. Sure it’s dad jazz, but I’ll take it over everything else we’ve been listening to. “Amsterdam” is worth the price of admission here, with such understated power arranged behind “Greensleeves”. It’s a stunning tune, with passion and swagger for days. It’s hard to dive too deep into some of the other songs as they can feel a little same-y; “Les vieux” and “Les plat pays” are both excellent but some of the songs at a little chintzy. Still, there’s no denying the power here. I give it a 3 rounding down from 3.5; if there were more standouts I’d go higher. Breath of fresh air from where we’ve been though.
7/10 Highlights: Amsterdam Plat Pays
Olympia 64 by Jacques Brel Listening to Olympia 64 made me realize just how much of Jacques Brel’s artistry lies in his emotive delivery. He sings with such raw passion that you can’t help but feel moved, even if you don’t understand the words. That said, I suspect that knowing French would elevate the experience significantly, as I’m sure the lyrics hold just as much weight as his performance. Even without grasping the full meaning, I found myself appreciating the energy and intensity of the music. It’s an album that hints at more depth than I can fully access, which left me both intrigued and a little detached. Standout Song: Amsterdam Score: 3/5
So stereotypically French it came full circle and I quite enjoyed it. Felt like I was sat in a Parisian restaurant
5/10 passionate. should be worth something but it isn't 12-27-2024
Nice 60s soul, good lyrics and theatral vocal in french.
I feel like it is almost worth learning French just to see what has this guy so worked up. I wateched the video for Amsterdam and Jacques sure does pour his heart into it. This album is exactly the kind of thing that should be on this list, even live and in a language I don't (yet) know.
French. French jazz? Idk. Its in french. I feel snooty
Not really a fan of this genre. Fine for once
A lovely voice and the whole record is great. I'm sure to sure a Brel fanatic this would be an iconic recording of a legendary performance but unfortunately I don't know enough about him. However I will delve further on account of this.
Umm ok, influential I guess? Faves: Amsterdam, Les jardins du casino
Welp, I'd no doubt get a lot more out of this if my French didn't suck. Still an interesting listen, I guess, hearing where Scott Walker took some of his schtick from. I'm sure he's been influential on a whole bunch of other people I dig, too. Fave tracks - "Amsterdam" and "Au Suivant" - the latter of which is presumably the song that appears the most on this list, as there's three versions of it? Are there any other songs with that claim? 🤔
enjoyable enough, but i think if i’m gonna go back to this i’ll seek out the full recording of this show.. this version is noticeably missing something highlights: amsterdam, le plat pays, la dernier repas (apr 23 2026)
interesting enough but just not something i really care to listen to
Classic sound, made me miss Paris a lot. :,) Favorite track: Le plat plays
Big and intense, and also tender in a way. It's interesting for a while, but can't quite catch me since I don't speak more than a few words of french.
I'm sure I would enjoy this more if I knew French. Very passionate singing. Normally I don't like live albums but I don't mind this being live, great energy.
If you imaging a French crooner recording an album with stereotypical French music sounds (the accordion and piano) then you’re already on the money
Mi único otro acercamiento con la música francesa de este estilo es el trabajo de Serge Gainsbourg. Entendiendo de cierta forma la teatralidad y complejidad de las piezas francoparlantes, puedo admirar bastante el trabajo de este LP, el cual es un registro en vivo de Jacques Brel. Su imposición ante el micrófono muestran una seguridad envidiable, y van muy bien con el estilo de canciones que interpreta, las cuales son historias narradas. Personalmente, no lo disfruté tanto. Este estilo Kitsch estuvo bastante de moda en Latinoamérica, más aún para quienes somos vecinos de los argentinos y su tango (el cual encuentro mucho más interesante que su versión francesa). No sé cuál fue el impacto de este álbum en la música francesa, pero de cierta forma podría inferir que Brel tuvo un impacto similar en las corrientes más alternativas del indie noventero y dosmilero, como Pulp o Baxter Dury, que Gainsbourg. Tampoco sé si este disco deba estar en esta lista, pero esa discusión se la deja a cualquier francoparlante que quiera iluminarme.
Might have enjoyed it more if I were fluent
Nice live performance but the selection of songs isn't as interesting.
I love the cover of this album.
It was a pretty passionate performance, I’ll give Jacques credit for that. It’s a strong set with lots of character on display especially on Tango, that one got the crowd right riled up. He definitely lays it on pretty thick and it’s not for me but it’s evident he’s a great entertainer. 3 st.. Ahem, Trois etoile
I actually quite liked this. His singing is dynamic so it was an interesting listen.
6/10 This hits a ceiling but hits it extremely well His voice and charisma are off the scale. Excellent delivery The music is simple and very very French Perhaps too simple, and it is just him belting out a few songs Best: Amsterdam
I thought this would be a more difficult listen as it was all in French, it had good energy and was upbeat throughout, although I wouldn't have it on again although glad I listened to it
Kinda dig it
At this point in the list (700-something) I welcome any and all variety that occasionally comes along. This seemed like it would be a nice listen, but is too randomly obnoxious to really enjoy.
French Scott Walker?
It was pleasant to listen to in the bacground whilew working. I did not pay attention to any partovilar song (as in none stood out) but they were all equally pleasant. I would put this on t olisten to while doing something else, and would possibly buy the album if i came across it, but I would not seek it out
Another French album. This guy looks like the dude from Dragnet. Not Colonel Potter, the other one. I can only follow some bits and phrases of French, and the rest is by tone. That said, he carries emotions through his voice effectively, for whatever those French emotions are. A lot of contempt, I think. It passed the time on the morning commute pretty well until it ended. That's more Philadelphia's fault then Jacques, though. This being a live album, I was expecting the audience to express more. Maybe they're a more polite audience. Or they just have contempt for Jacques.
It's very difficult to give a proper assessment of Jacques Brel with my very limited knowledge of French. Based on that, I'm giving this album 3 stars because it feels fair. That aside, I can appreciate the dynamics of the music, at times larger than life, and others gentle and soothing. There are certainly stories being told even if I don't know what they are. The influence on Scott Walker is very evident, even if he hadn't covered so many of Brel's songs. Francophone listeners, I hope you enjoy this one!
Very unique, yet graceful voice… bof bof
Great voice, just not my taste in music.
Meh, not bad but I have no interest in listening again
A little tough to embrace a prime example of “chanson”, which according to Wikipedia are lyric driven songs, when you don’t speak the language. So for me, it was just listening to some decent music with a Frenchman ranting over it. I can't penalize the album just because I didn't understand the words.
Twangs my heart strings for some reason.. I'm not French but it feels familiar.. 3 stars
The opening track (Amsterdam) is intense - it kind of has the chord progression of Greensleeves but with the addition of some seriously cool/dramatic singing and timpani-like drums punctuating it. About half of the remaining tracks follow the same lines, with the more upbeat, intense ones being the highlights. The ballads, on the other hand, are kind of lost on me - excluding the string parts, which are pretty good. "Le plat pays" is a track which would be a complete throwaway without the strings in the latter half (though honestly, it's still probably a throwaway regardless). As an aside, this musical style is exactly what comes to mind when someone says "French 60s music". The accordions probably don't help to break down the stereotype. I'm giving this a slightly higher rating than I would've initially, because as another reviewer pointed out, it's hard to judge this without understanding the nuances of the language, since Brel is known for his wit and turn-of-phrase. 3/5 Key tracks: Amsterdam, Les timides, Tango Funebre
Silly french jazz man. Ok-solid nothing stood out. 5/10
Its alright, def not bad so it gets and average rating. Its french. I will say it made me go down a rabbit hole of famous Opera performances on youtube which is something even tho thats def not related in any way musically
3.5
Good stuff.
french stuff, not my thing
Haven’t listened to something so FRENCH. 3.0
not my kind of music
Eka biisi asetti kovat odotukset, myös teeman: erikoiset, hyljeksityt hahmot. Jälkimmäinen todellakin lunastettiin, oli maailmojen rajan tanssit. Hieno rikkumaton lauluääni. Hiukan liian samanlaisia ja tasapaksuja kukin biisi tosin, tempo- ja volyymivaihteluista huolimatta. Vahva 2 niin pakko antaa 3.
Oho, ein französischer Künstler. Ok, lange tot, gehört zum französischen Inventar wie Elvis zum amerikanischen. Da kann man also nix falsch machen wenn man ihn als Feigenblatt mit auf die Liste packt. Jetzt aber weiter mit 90er Jahre Grunge, Indie, Alternative...
It's not my style of music, but I can appreciate the clear love of music that Jacques has. Probably a 2.5/5 for me.
If the Paris Las Vegas had opened 35 years earlier, this album could have been recorded there.
Jeg kan godt sige jer min Duolingo-streak på 1000+dage kom på prøve her. Jeg forstod..............lidt af det?? Synes egentlig det lød meget godt, hans stemme minder mig lidt om Nick Cave, men altså der er meget der ryger hen over hovedet på en når det er så lyrikbaseret
Jeg nød det en del mere end jeg lige havde regnet med, mest fordi han lyder så skør
Very old school. Don Draper would have loved it. I wish I spoke French, would have probably enjoyed it more.
Französische Chansons, gut gealtert.
The French Frank Sinatra. Franc Senêtre
Enjoyed this!
I have no idea what he's saying but I believe him
I liked this and while I couldn’t see myself going out of my way to put it on again if I stumbled upon it on shuffle it makes for easy listening.
I can really appreciate this. I have a soft spot for "songwriters" like this. I'd love to know French as I listen to this. His voice is so impassioned that'd I'd love to know what he is singing about. There is a mix of standards from that time period (Sinatra) with the future of some of the music to come in the 60's. Very interesting.
Wasn't particularly impressed or turned off by this album. It just kind of was. I'd prefer to give it a 2.5, but due to the rating system I'll have to go with a 3 since a 2 is a bit harsh
This is a lot for 10AM on a Friday, but not a bad alot. Like 3 stars? An easy listen, but man, he's so stuffy and formal.
Okay, i'm not entirely sure what i'm listening to, but the crazy over-the-top theatrical french frank sinatra vibe has me smiling and chuckling most of the way through. There are definitely some "whoah" moments where it gets a bit too much, but the energy and attitude are engaging.
I'd probably enjoy this better if I understood the lyrics.
Really powerful and passionate performances, even though I don't usually enjoy live albums. Some uninteresting moments but overall solid. There's something about listening to other languages that I enjoy a lot. Highlights: Amsterdam Tango funebre
Favorite Track: Amsterdam Les jardins du casino
Can’t do this. And have no business rating it.
It’s cool, I suppose. I don’t know any French.. D:
fun
Liked this
French guy sings in French. Pretty okay.
Ich mag die franzosen
A live album. Jaques has good studio albums. 28 minutes long as well. This album gets a low score, but that’s more h the fault of whoever picked it rather than on Monsieur Brel. He killed it on this, as he pretty much always done. So much passion in that voice. No clue what he’s saying, but I really feel it. Good work Jaques, bad work list maker. 3/5
It’s fine idk
Very french
Fun but forgettable French crooning
Je ne parle pas Français 3/5
Classy and charming
No idea what was going on but it sounded so amazing and I instantly wanted to watch a video of this performance. Loved this from the list; it’s so nice when something DIFFERENT pops up! (ntm.)
Well, Jacques Brel was never for me - too grandiose - but it's defiantly what it is, so I'll give it a neutral 3.
французские лайвы каждый раз неожиданно в этом списке. наслушалась до состояния что кажется что почти все песни давно знаю. иц ок, но лайв...
French. Playful.
One of those artists that you (I) think you know because of their influence of others, but don't really know that well. More dramatic and vigorous in delivery than I expected, but the action is really in the lyrics (Amsterdam is my favourite)
best nice en cute
French theatrical songs. Guy has a super powerful voice. I wonder if singer from Rammstein was influenced by him. Tolerated this better than I thought I would.
dnf but cute!!
I really don't even know what I'm supposed to get out of this album, and Wikipedia didn't make it much clearer. I feel like this is the type of thing that wouldn't be for me even if I could understand the words. It's not bad, but it's also just hard for me to appreciate without a lot more context 3/5
Very French. Not bad, but I'm not a fan of Chanson
Meh.
Das hört sich wirklich ganz gut an.
french, but nice
It was okay. Not quite my jam, but still fine.
Nice voice and good singing for a live album, so doing this on one go seems meritable. It does make me wonder wether there'll be more albums in other languages too or this is just a one-off because it's french and stuff in french is automatically art or something.
This is fine, I don't think it's anything special. It was not unenjoyable to listen to, but at the same time not enjoyable.
A live performance of French songs. The singer has a very powerful voice. I understood nothing of it, and fell out of it by the end. Standouts: Amsterdam and Tango funebre
Not terrible and has its value, but not sure why this would be a must listen for anyone. Why on this list? 3 star album at best
French Frank Sinatra?
Ganska trevligt, drömlängd på albumet
Sixty years ago. SIXTY. For most of us, our parents may not even have met yet. For some people who may later read this review, your parents may not have even been born. I thought about that a lot when this album was playing. I had never head of this act, but not only was he huge in France but there was some crossover that spilled into the United States. Other musicians covered his work, and from the audience reaction he was huge. And yet, I knew nothing of this man or what he was singing. But the passion was obviously there. I would have liked more of the orchestra to back him up some, but that's more of a quibble. I gave this bigger leeway because of the fact that it was 60 years old, and obviously there was something to the phenomenon of Brel I had no connection with. He performed the pieces well, but I didn't have as much of a connection as someone who spoke French would have. He didn't just come out for 30 minutes, did he? THat doesn't seem like a long concert. Hopefully these were just some of the highlights. Anyway, for what it was, it was... okay.
Brel has a good voice and brings some nice energy, but I found myself bored at times. I don't know if it's because I can't connect with the French lyrics. Maybe it's the musical style - it sounds so dated or like a stereotypical backdrop to any scene set in Paris with the prominent accordion and violin work. I'm probably not being fair or don't understand the chanson genre so I'm giving it an average rating, but I just couldn't get into it.
Nice one
Being half-French probably made this an easier listen than it would be for Anglophones, but with all the emotion that Jacques puts into his performance, I'm sure the message gets across one way or the other. He really laid it all out there. Honestly, it almost became too much for me at times -- the theatricality on display is wild, and even at 28 minutes, I can't say I wanted it to go on much longer. But it's a great representation of French chanson, by one of the best to do it. It was a cool listen, and I'm glad I got the chance to check out some of Brel's work.
Definitely the most French thing I've ever heard. Dude has some passion I'll give him that just no idea what the hell he's singing. At least Spanish I kinda understand and Portuguese I can make some guesses. Not terrible and entertaining I guess. The crowd treats this guy like Taylor Swift, they go nuts which is pretty funny
A French delight. Listened with translated lyrics for some of the songs and they were pretty good.
Feel like I'd need to look more into the guy to know why this is included, but it's fine. He's belting it out on the opener, the rest can't really compare, even though his powerful voice does carry the rest of them too.
I've heard of this artist but don't think I've listened before. Kind of amusing French music, but not particularly compelling.
Swinging 60s French
It’s ok if you like mid-century French singers (Charles Trenet, etc)
great sounds, not my style though.
He had a lot of gusto
l'un des rares albums francais de la liste. inoffensif, assez plaisant à écouter et bonne énergie. mais surement il y avait meilleur dans son catalogue que ce live album?
It's apparently a French poetry thingy. It's a big hit-and-miss. Jacques Brel's half-sung half-spoken verses are pretty annoying at some places, but he does have a great voice when he actually sings. Overall, it's hard to appreciate it since if one doesn't know any French. I had a mixed impression with the instrumentals too, though it's interesting most of the time. I still appreciated it though. Though I wonder if it's a good introduction to the so-called "Chanson". Well, I know that Jacques Brel is considered as master of the genre but still... One of the most amusing albums I've ever encountered.
A stirring sliver of Gallic brio. Bravo!
Although I didnt understand half of the album, the passion Jacques signs with and the people loving it makes it amazing to hear. Its a romantic pop ballards album like a Sinatra but from another country. Glad it found its way to me so I could learn and listen to it and “discover” it. Impressed by this one that was a left jab in the face.
What a voice. I don't speak a lick of the language, but that hasn't stopped me from enjoying other records. I also enjoy a good live album, and this is one. The orchestra is spellbinding, the vocal performances are passionate but precise, playful but sincere--and the crowd's enthusiasm is included appropriately. Another album that makes me want bourbon and a smoke. Highlights: Amsterdam, Tango funèbre, Le play pays
Really not my sort of thing at all, but it's very well done. Great singing voice, enjoyable songs, a very lively crowd.
Barely understand the lyrics, yet I know they’re beautiful (I’m drunk writing this)
Would probably be lit if I was French and like 40 yrs old in 1964
Liked it more than I thought. Sounds like something that would be playing in a French bakery or restaurant.
He’s got a good solid name and this is a good solid album. Not as good as a lot of the other French language stuff that Del Schwartz has opened me up to, but I had a good half hour listening to it. Probably better if I knew French. The best thing about this album is that on the cover he looks like a sexy Belgian Martin Clunes. 3/5
Not everyone's cup of tea but still enjoyable music.
I don’t know what he’s saying, but his vibe is pretty good. Not an all time classic for me but not a bad listen.
In 1964, many people were listening to the Beatles, but then there were some listening to this guy. I have no idea what he is saying, but he sure is passionate about it.
Man, this guy sounds like he really has something to say. I really wish I knew what he was saying. He tossed a few words in there I caught, which was cool. Otherwise, I’m pretty sure I found the perfect soundtrack if I were ever getting dumped while bullfighting at a carnival sideshow on Christmas morning. Can’t really top that, I suppose.
It's like can't speak English! Just kidding, very 60's romantic music. Tres chic and all that
Ik ben wel blij dat dit album (of concert?) tenminste begint met het bekendste nummer. Zo kan ik er tenminste even inkomen. Want chansons hoor je amper meer, of het moet zijn bij de aftiteling van programma's, of bij de gecancelde Matthijs en de Snollebollekes. Het 'zingen' van Brel, met het overdreven gearticuleerde vertellen van verhalen, zullen velen beschrijven als vol van passie. Je zou het ook aanstellerig kunnen noemen. Blijkbaar deed hij alles vol overgave, zo ook het bier drinken. Maar ach, het is een van de weinige albums met wat van dit soort muziek. Een trekzak horen we niet zo vaak en een zingende zaag al helemaal niet. Je gaat gelijk in gedachten naar een Parijs uit vervlogen tijden. Melancholisch, nostalgisch, romantisch (althans, dat zeggen mensen over Parijs). Je waant je slenterend langs de oevers van de Seine, snuffelend door de boekenkraampjes. Om vervolgens een potje jeu de boules te spelen met een glas wijn en een stuk stokbrood met camembert in het park bij de Eiffeltoren. Het kabbelt een beetje voort op de achtergrond, terwijl ik aan het werk ben. Ik stoor me er niet aan, maar om nu te zeggen dat ik er bijzonder veel plezier uit haal, is teveel eer. Ik wil er 2,5 ster voor geven.
French chanson album? How did you know what I wanted for Valentines Day? Seriously, this was one of the best non-English language inclusions on this list (apart from The Cocteau Twins - ha). That voice was a force of nature. It made me sheepishly realise how much high school French I’ve forgotten. Sorry, Mme Shoestock.
Jacques Brel... ¿Qué más decir? La voz y la interpretación del cantante belga justifican la escucha de este disco en directo, aunque se eche de menos la inolvidable "Ne me quitte pas".
French, old, I'd call it ballroom singing
Pretty fun, I pictured a French musical
Dude has pipes and knows how to work a crowd!
No idea what this dude was singing about, but he sang his heart out! Bravo!
Interesting listen, probably not something I would revisit, but a very lovely set of songs and music. 3/5!
There is certainly a language barrier for someone like myself who only speaks English, and you can almost certainly tell that with any of these French albums. They just have this feeling towards them where I know I'm missing something lyrically, and its my fault. However, I feel music is music, and the music part should carry still, and this one only kind of does. His voice can be powerful, and some of the instrumentation is nice, the horns remind me Sgt. Pepper, but it feels very repetitive even in its short runtime, and that language barrier really is killer, but perhaps I should give it the benefit of the doubt? There's no way its another French album about diddling kids, right? Then again, perhaps I should be moved by the music enough to find out what he's singing, and I'm not. So, mixed feelings on this one.
This one wasn’t bad. I appreciate the exposure to the music of other cultures. I couldn’t understand the lyrics, so no comment there. It was definitely a style I’m unfamiliar with, but I annoyed it nonetheless
Live album by Jacques Brel who seems to be a legendary figure in music (and other arts). I'm happy to admit he is a great virtuoso and a massive influence on modern music, but it's too hard to enjoy this type of singing for me. French bards are not high in my hierarchy of greatest acts of last century. Very average experience for me.
2.5-3 only for the energy he had. Not my style but appreciate the voice
I don’t speak fluent enough french to understand the words, but it’s crazy how the emotion behind them transcends that. This was a live album recorded in the 60’s, so the sound quality was not there. But, Jacques’ voice was powerful. I can see why other artists have taken after him.
Didn't feel too strongly about this one way or the other. I think it's good, definitely not bad by any means. Just not really for me. It definitely helped that it came in at a breezy 28 minutes.
Sure, ok. I suppose to French folks, this guy is like Frank Sinatra. Maybe I’ll be able to answer random trivia questions correctly after listening to this album, but it was nothing special for me. 2.7.
Not familiar with Brel. I didn't know he wrote "Ne Me Quitte Pas". Seems like he might be on this list for importance, not necessarily this album. It's alright. 3.3
An interesting dive in to French live pop music. I woulda thought Edith Piaf would be the go-to for French music. this was a fun listen and while I don't get what makes it a must-listen I'm glad I got it. 3/5.
Quite different from most UK and US music. It's singing, but it sounds more like he's telling a story half the time. He definitely has conviction, even if I only understand half of the French. The length is good. Short, but it shouldn't have been longer. Favorite song: Le Plat Pays
Just not my type of music
Language barrier made it more difficult to enjoy, but appreciate it.
This album is pleasant enough, but I am just too unfamiliar with the music and style to give it an informed rating. The instrumentation is sparse with Jacques Brel's voice being the centerpiece. I know he has been a trenmendous influence on popular songwriters so there is obviously something in his writing that resonates with people.
Admittedly I’m a stupid American so I’m not very educated on French music. It seems as though this guy is a pretty prominent artist in “classic” French music. One of the reviewers provided some great context on some of the songs that non-French speakers couldn’t understand. Even outside of that, the raw emotion in his voice was surely entertaining. Combined with the fact that this was recorded live, I think this album was pretty solid and I’m glad I gave it a listen.
Chanson wie man es sich vorstellt - auch die Liveatmosphäre macht die Scheibe so autentisch.
Feels like I maybe losing a bit in translation here. Apparently the physical show of this performance was quite the spectacle and obviously I don’t understand all of the lyrics. But either way, it’s not capturing my attention.
bought this on vinyl to listen to. now my house smells of cigarettes and all my whiskey is gone.
Very romantic sounding. It helps that there's a lot of seemingly classic French influence in the instrumentation...you know, being French. His voice definitely feels like something I've heard in films or just generally around. Surprised that his first release was a seemingly live album as well.
Peak Frog
Hmm…. Another odd one. This is a 1964 (released in 1967) live album from a French performer (born in Belgium), who I’d never heard of. Recorded in French, and sounding stereotypically French. I looked around Wikipedia, and there’s very little information on this album. But there’s more on Jacques Brel: he was active musically through the 50’s and 60’s, and into the 70’s, releasing 14 studio albums and 2 live albums between ‘54 and ‘77. Also appeared in 10 films between ‘67 and ‘73. Apparently, his songs were covered by several folk as diverse as a David Bowie and John Denver. And Scott Walker…. His Scott Walker II album includes 3x Jacques Brel songs, and is on the 1001 list, and I rated it 2/5 a couple of weeks ago. So, what of the album? This sounds like a French version of a mid 60’s Vegas crooner, maybe one of the Rat Pack. All nice enough, seeming rather polite. Perhaps even quaint at the same time worldwide Beatlemania was in full swing. It’s also remarkably short, just over 28 minutes. Being a French version of mid-60’s crooner is not bad, mind you, but I surely don’t think it rises to the level of Sinatra. I like this better than that Scott Walker II album (that included 3x S.Brel written songs). Give it low 3 stars, an interesting period piece. 3/5
I really wish I remembered more (read: any) of the French I took in school so I could understand and better appreciate what sounded to be a rather revelrous evening of music and life.
I know enough French to know that this would be way better if I understood French. Unfortunately, without more fluency, the musical style isn’t my thing, so I can’t give it too high a score.
Opera? On my list? It's more common than you think. Not bad, not my cup of tea.
Way out of my norm. It was beautiful. His voice is fantastic and it really pulls together well musically. I’ll queue it up on Bastille day at my house
An interesting album, very theatrical in nature, and Brel’s performance and energy manages to convey the mood and tone of the songs even if one doesn’t understand French (which I don’t) making this a compelling listen and an album worth revisiting.
uh, ok Pepe Le Pew lookin' ass.
Fav song: amsterdam
I knew Brel from his famous and superb Ne Me Quitte Pas. Although none of the songs here can match that masterpiece, at least Amsterdam comes close, if by nothing but the power of sheer will, of which Jacques seems to have no shortage of. Seriously, check the lyrics and the translation, the song hits different, as I'm sure all of his songs do. 3 drunken sailors out of 5 🚣🚣🚣
Oh merde! J'ai terminé ma dernière critique avec une touche française, et cela m'a valu un album français en retour, alors je suppose que c'est une chose maintenant?... Anyways, I like the first song, or chanson, called "Amsterdam" as Brel puts his full chest into it, but there after is very hit or miss. The recording is also very rough around the edges, applause fades in and out and sounds like basic stock audio clips inserted between songs, and the overall feel has the taste of half smoked Gauloises and Gitanes cigarettes.
Not sure what was special about this live album as opposed to any other from Brel's discography, but it was a fine enough album by one of the greats of la chanson française.
Fun. But my French isn’t good enough.
French.
HL: “Amsterdam”, “Les vieux”, “Le plat pays”, “Jef”, “En suivant” C’est bon 3.5 November 17th, 2023
Bravo! Quel bon œuvre.
If Tom Waits or Leonard Cohen were French and came on the scene 15 or so years before they did, I imagine this is what they would be cranking out. Passionate, soulful singing and a simple, traditional sound. Good album, definitely would not have thought to seek this one out.
I guess if you're French...
I like getting these from left field - but can't say I would listen again. I prefer Serge Gainsbourg in this genre
A nice voice, clearly very expressive even not being able to tell what he is saying. A little disappointing that his only album on the list is a live album, but in terms of live albums it's not too obnoxious.
Expressive and good voice, but doesn't do a lot for me besides make me feel classier than I really am.
3.5
Well you can feel the emotion he puts into the songs. Check the lyrics to Amsterdam if you'd like to expand your mind a bit.
Short and sweet
What he say?
Silly French man
I kinda liked it, surprisingly so
One of those artists I only heard a song pass by but it fades into memory. But he is something unique. Very dramatic, intense performances here. Maybe it would help if I was more fluent in French, but I’m not.. But his style was definitely original and I can see the appeal for a lot of people. 6,5 out of 10
french music slaps, but this didn't knock my boots off
Had never listened before...pretty solid. Would 100% listen again. 3.5/5
3.5
Well this is about as far apart as you can get on live albums back-to-back. Unfortunately, I don't have much to say about this one since a lot of it went in one ear and out the other (plus I got into a fight w/ my gf right before listening which couldn't have helped). It was cool to get more french music because I don't think I've gotten too much of that so far. Even the wiki blurb doesn't have anything interesting to say about this album. Also, "avec" in the 4th song is used so much it just started to annoy me; that hard consonant doesn't work with the vibes.
Influential. Of its time.
This is an object lesson into how to roll an R. 😂 at the end of Tango Funebre, where he goes mental.
Good, wish I could understand the lyrics
I felt like Jacques was singing only to me...very entertaining
I listened to one song since it’s French and that felt fresh. Being live did not feel fresh so can only do a 3 star but loved the music.
Melódico. Un poco aburrido
This is the Frenchest thing I've ever heard in my life and I'm fluently bilingual
One of the most aggressively French albums ever made. But that’s by no means a bad thing: even if the listener doesn’t speak the same language, Brel’s wit and warmth shine through.
Can't fault the energy here. 2.8
Jacques Brel is a popular chanson artist from the '60s. His style of music delivery is like a French Randy Newman or Leonard Cohen in that his grasp on the language, and his ability to paint a picture are breathtaking. Most of his music on this album starts as a whisper, and through the song lyrics and musical accompaniment, he slowly ramps up the intensity, culminating at an amazing crescendo near the end of the song. The musical accompaniment on this record has a real french bistro feel to it, with the heavy accordion work and beautiful guitar playing throughout. Since I don't speak French, but I understand bits and pieces, I'm left with a fragmented picture of what Jacques is singing about. Given what my research and translation apps have told me, Jacques is painting beautiful artistic pictures on the stage both through his lyrics, and his acting. I wish I spoke the language so that I could experience what the audience experienced on those two nights in '64. Something of note here: both of Jacques parents died in '64 prior to this live recording, so the themes of darkness and pain are coming from a very real, very fresh place. Another interesting fact, the album opener, Amsterdam, was covered by David Bowie. Overall, a really great album. I wouldn't actively seek it out, but am also glad to have heard it. Favorite songs: Amsterdam, Les Jardins Du Casino, Les Timides, Le Dernier Repas, Les Toros Avec Final Least favorite songs: Le Plat Pays 3/5
Nice opera
Great voice and pretty fun songs. It would be some good music to cook to or something. But I have not the faintest idea of what any of the lyrics mean.
Some great live performances