Serge Gainsboung. Just typing his name for you feels controversial. Allow me to give you some context. He turned the French national anthem into an upbeat reggae tune, he burned French currency LIVE on national television. And,we can’t forget about his provocative records such as “Jane Birkin,” or even, “Histoire de Melody Nelson,” Yeah, he’s quite that controversial figure, keeping his “Gainsbarre” character alive. But one thing for sure is how Gainsbourg kept continuously aware about being a great poet. Blowing our minds up with his lyrics, while staying within that same low, no effort, and yet smooth vocal tone. One record from his repertoire that I adore the most is his 1976 release titled, “L’Homme à tête de chou.” I remember seeing this cassette tape, and just reading the name got my attention. It literally means “Man with a cabbage head.” HOW CLEVER!. Arriving home, putting on my pair of Marshall headphones, and pressing “play” on my cassette deck was the end for me. At that point I remember just closing my eyes, and felt as if I was going into some sort of “musical trance.” Each instrument was designated a part, and perfectly played that part within the record. It’s no doubt that it’s in my top five records of all time! And what caught my attention was how music wasn’t bland. There’s a-lot that’s going on. You start to understand that Serge Gainsbourg wants to try something new, doesn’t want to settle for the same bland melody. This man branched out into the world of rock and roll, reggae, and even instrumental elements. Sure there might have been maybe one or two small easy tracks, but let me tell you that the rest leaves you with an impression. GUARANTEED!
The record kicks off very mysterious with its title track, “L’Homme à tête de chou,” where you’ve got the sound of chimes, and this organ playing in the background, but then transitioning into this great rock and roll melody, while Gainsbourg reads us his poetry. But the winner, and mind blowing song for me goes to “Variations sur Marilou.” The music starts off with this sort of melody, where you’ve got this repetitive piano melody being accompanied by an electric guitar, bass and drums. Pretty chill for beginning, but then the musical tempo starts to pick up speed, and slightly the melody too. Transitioning from this innocence of a tune into this mesmerizing rock and roll melody. Do me a favour and listen to it. You won’t regret it, TRUST ME!