David Grumel - Beaurivage FLAC

David Grumel is probably most well-known for his groovy "D'jazz Tribute" on Saint-Germain-des-Prés-Café 2. On his debut album, Beaurivage, he manages to combine that nujazz with downtempo and poppy songs, with some breathtaking results. The charmingly mellow instrumental title track is sure to please downtempo fans, but "Freerush" shows Grumel adding his voice, which could put off some listeners. The lyrics aren't particulary clever, but the male vocals are absolutely flawless, which is evidenced by repeated listenings to the hooking "Brand New Pop Song". Instrumentals like "Lifestyle" and "Linoleum Love" are notable for their ambience and subtle but effective electronic touches. The album features excellent production, though "Overground (1971)" sounds less clean than the other tracks. Special credit goes to the great regular appearing string arrangements, such as on the very sweet "The Revolution Beat". By contrast, "Departure Area" is very dark, but the twist in the last minute partly makes up for that. "Magnolias" is the best track here, sampling Billie Holiday's haunting voice over moving organ lines and crying guitars. The very last piano notes are of an indescribable beauty.