The creative collaboration between lyricist and songwriter Peter Doherty and French composer and producer Frédéric Lo is inspired.
Well-defined with clarity throughout, Doherty describes the album project as a desire “to capture something of the spirit of Étretat in its quieter moments during lockdown.” It is where French novelist Maurice Leblanc lived, and the place where he wrote his Arsène Lupin novels.
The allocation of creative responsibility is that Lo composes the music, and Doherty writes the poetry, and it means that their artistic partnership can flourish. The idea of capturing true creativity often seems idealistic, if not unrealistic, but this record is a suitable contender in the category.
Recorded between Paris and Normandy, the album also signifies a return to basics, a result of daily writing sessions lasting two months. It was a place where the combination of a guitar, a typewriter, some wine and some laughter, all played a part. Rich in melody, based around principles of natural composition and improvisation, the songs are vibrant and fulfilling.
With darkly textured hints, the pulsating track ‘The Ballad Of..’ is a fascinating insight into a curious character. With vague echoes of Scott Walker as much as Jacques Brel, it connects classical music elements with folk, and creates a fine, ‘60s style song, in the process.
The more playful, upbeat ‘You Can’t Keep It From Me Forever’ reconnects Doherty with his love of The Smiths and Suede. But even if it represents a yearning for things he cares about, it also plays with the idea of being strong enough to resist them.
The topicality in ‘Far From The Madding Crowd’ and ‘Yes I Wear A Mask’ is fascinating, it acts as a reminder of the dark times many still live in, but the songs can also be seen in wider, more universal context.
‘Monster’ offers drama of a more internal nature. For a short track, it has a lot of intricacy. Compact and concise, it may tackle the obsessive, dark nature of addiction, but it also has a sense of light and hope. Taking some inspiration from around Europe, its atmosphere is lucid, and it has a dreamy, immersive vibe.
The combination of having finely crafted compositions and a relatable, poetic voice is effective.
Is this Peter Doherty’s true artistic voice? This record makes you consider the question more than previously. There is no doubt that the style and execution are a valid, fascinating glimpse, and they represent, at least, one of his true voices.
8/10
Words: Susan Hansen
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