Back catalogue: Reggae

Review: Claude Fontaine's latest album, La Mer, transports listeners to an idyllic, mythical island envisioned by the artist, situated off the coast of France, a fantasy realm graced with a blend of French and Portuguese influences, fragrant air and Lapis Lazuli-coloured waters. The stone citadels of this timeless place house people living in a velvet eternity. Fontaine's music is the soundtrack to this utopian paradise, merging 60s French ye-ye pop, slinky Studio One reggae, and Brazilian tropicalia into a seamless fusion. The album's first single, 'Vaqueiro,' tells the story of a rugged gaucho who grapples with love and solitude on a remote ranch. Fontaine's voice, reminiscent of Jane Birkin and Francoise Hardy, intertwines with lush instrumentals to create a wonderful atmosphere. Produced and co-written by Grammy-winner Lester Mendez, known for his work with Grace Jones and Shakira, the album boasts an impressive roster of musicians. Guitarist Tony Chin, bassist Ronnie McQueen of Steel Pulse, and percussionist Gibi Dos Santos from Sergio Mendes' ensemble, among others, contribute to the album's rich, textured sound. Ziggy Marley's drummer, Rock Deadrick, adds further rhythmic depth. La Mer is Fontaine's ambitious follow-up to her self-titled debut, promising a romantic collection of songs that blend diverse musical traditions into a dreamy, interconnected world.