New album. LA COMPLICITÉ: A reimagining of quirky story songs by Charles Trenet
Forgive me for my Franglais!
What is complicity? It’s good banter between friends. Or even just a knowing look. It’s not mandatory that the meaning is hidden, but if so, more often than not it works better. What’s important is (in the words of neuroscientist Stephen Pinker) “you know, that I know, that you know, that I know, that you know, etc…
Charles Trenet shares a joke with George Brassens. Watch a fabulous video of them singing VOUS ETES JOLIE together HERE.
What I love about the video/ picture of Charles Trenet and George Brassens singing together is their ‘complicité’ – they are sharing a joke – or an understanding – which is what gives them the twinkle in the eye. But it’s not about someone in the audience or in the news – they are laughing at, or with, the characters in the songs they sing and write and revelling in the limitless freedom to play with words and meanings in this imaginary world.
The method of delivery, through the aural tradition, is so crucial to the Chanson. It feels kind of conspiratorial – like you’re sharing a secret – or an anecdote. You don’t necessarily understand all the words or meanings, nor for sure, do you catch all of the wickedly clever puns that litter Trenet’s songs, but you are swept up by the drift.
Of course, anyone can enjoy a Trenet song- and millions do – just off the back of the beautiful melodies or for myriad reasons emanating from the often joyous or poignant emotions he captures. But it’s his humorous vision that takes it to next level – le niveau de complcité! It’s the best kept secret – and for me, that’s why you join the Chanson club. It’s like a cult – when you get it, you get it. (Wink emoji!)
For us English, the trip into the world of French song was like that. We heard the stories of songs by Charles Trenet, and our inevitable refrain was, “He did what?!!” On hearing that the protagonist ate his adversaries’ brains if they dared to tutoyer his princess, we cried, “What did he do?!” Or, when a hero killed himself to overcome hunger, “what, for real”!? It’s completely crazy—but if you persevere til the end, there is meaning. You have to put in this comprehension work – but then you will find ‘la complicité!’ It’s like joining a secret society. ….. ‘’I know that you know, that I know, that you know, that I know….’’ etc.
So here it is – our latest album – nearly all Trenet songs – and a film! ‘’La Complicité’’ (Don’t tell anyone! Or actually, do!
The new album on BANDCAMP is HERE(Please don’t forget to like and subscribe – it really helps! Click here)