Jean-Marc Lederman – Electronic Slipper Music (Digital/CD Album – Les Disques De La Pantoufle)
Jean-Marc Lederman released a special album this year. Some may think it is just another release, but I consider this work to be deeply personal and introspective.
The album consists of fifteen tracks, alternating between vocal and instrumental pieces. The instrumental tracks that reference the album title (the “ESM” pieces) each correspond to a specific period, making it feel as if Lederman is guiding the listener through the different phases of his life. These are Experimental compositions in which he uses analog sounds to revive a certain lost magic, while also incorporating Industrial elements. Personally, I find this aspect extremely fascinating, particularly because of the richness of the sound palette and the way the sounds are manipulated.
Then there are the songs sung by Jean-Marc himself, something that was rare in the past. Here, a different stylistic approach emerges compared to the instrumental tracks, while lyrically he retains his familiar abstract and often humorous style. At the same time, the album feels like a kind of retrospective: he reflects on figures such as Alan Vega, on love and impossible love, and on nostalgia. You can hear that Jean-Marc Lederman is sometimes slightly uncomfortable behind the microphone, but the half-spoken, almost recitative delivery of the lyrics works perfectly in this context. Musically, the album is extremely varied, ranging from Suicide-like minimalism to cabaret-influenced passages and atmospheric moments reminiscent of “Twin Peaks”. Some songs feel fully formed, while others remain deliberately fragmentary, reinforcing the album’s intimate and reflective character. Some songs are completed with delicate piano arrangements, while others take the form of more orchestral pieces. The album also seems to open a door to the future, as Lederman’s creativity shows no signs of running dry.
This is an album to be listened to attentively however, I can easily imagine that his most loyal fans, and those most familiar with his work, will find it a deeply rewarding and enjoyable experience. (Rating:7).
Listen to “ESM 1957-1967”:
https://jmlederman.bandcamp.com/track/esm-1957-1967
I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.
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