Review: Selim - Maison Rock
7/30/2015 was the day I finally purchased a digital copy of Selim’s “Maison Rock” on iTunes.
Of course Selim is the stage name of Joseph Chedid, who comes from a very artistic family; think of any artform you like, and chances are there’s a member of the Chedid clan blessed with that gift. (Examples include novelist/poet Andree Chedid, Chanson Francais artist Louis Chedid, multi-instrumental phenom and French rock icon Matthieu Chedid [aka -M-], and rising star Anna Chedid [aka NACH].)
Joseph has chosen his grandfather’s name for music business purposes, thus afirming his family ties and declaring his individuality at the same time. He’s got the tallent and the success potential - I know this first hand because I saw his band perform at a bar in the Oberkamph section of Paris in 2011 [that line-up is *not* featured on this album] as well as opening for some of Matt’s concerts as -M- in 2013.
Maison Rock was originally released in October of 2014 and is best discribed as French alternative rock with occasional electronica overtones. The lyrics are very sophisticated and the melody structure sometimes borders on classical music... and that’s an intriguing combination. Two videos have already been released (”Paranoia” and “Les Sirenes”), and the final track (”L’amour eternel”) was covered by his father during the Chedid Family tour. (*I’m told the family tour cd is supposed to drop 9/11/2015; more on that later.*)
As for deeper tracks on this album, my favorites are “L’infini” and “Ode aux envies”. “L’infini” is one I remember hearing at live gigs; this intrepitation is an eclectic dance mix with electronic effects and violins. It’s not disco, but it’s deffinately got a club-ish vibe... oh, and Joseph’s vocals are hypnotic.
“Ode aux envies” is slower and more serious, starting with a string quartet but transitioning into drums/bass/guitar/keys/electronic effects; in the lyrics of this song, Joseph talks about his insecurities and the abilities others have that he envies and jelousies. **Edit - I was en route for home after work the first time I listened to this album, so I didn’t know the author’s credits until this evening when I just happened to glance at them a few moments ago: this song was a colaboration between Matthieu Chedid & Joseph Chedid.**
So, let’s recap: the first Selim CD is rich and varried - it’s serious, fun, electronic, accoustic, modern, classical, and most of all engaging. It’s a welcome addition to the international music scene. Remember that name: Selim (nee Joseph Chedid); you’ll be hearing more from him in the future.
Dance Locally, Rock Globally.
