Canadian and Québecoise singer Laurence Jalbert released a new Christmas album, Un coeur d’enfant pour Noël (A child-like heart for Christmas). It consists of covers, French versions of Christmas classics, and two songs in English (River and Amazing Grace).
The music is French Pop/Holiday. The musical team honours the Christmas classics, blending contemporary French Pop with music similar to the original versions. The compositions are remarkable. The album starts with a beautiful ballad of Laurence Jalbert’s rendition of Mon plus beau Noël. Sainte Nuit (Silent Night) has lovely, modern music and honours the original version’s musical structure. Laurence Jalbert’s version of Petit Garçon follows the structure of the original one but with a slightly faster tempo and modern beat. Peuple Fidèle (O Come All Ye Faithful) has a nice Country twist to a Christmas classic. On this record, River (a song by Joni Mitchell) follows the structure of the original tune but with more guitar and some piano. It beautifully kept the folk-style sound like Joni Mitchell’s single. Marie, Savais-tu has incredible guitar playing. It is a modern rendition of a classic, and the semi-fast pace creates heartfelt energy. Amazing Grace follows the original musical structure but with a French-style beat. The music in this version of Minuit Chrétien (O Holy Night) feels simple and intimate. It reminds me of choir performances in churches. The album’s vibe is cosy, sentimental and soulful.
The musicians on this album are phenomenal. They did an excellent job blending new musical styles and honouring the music of the original versions.
Laurence Jalbert’s voice is soft and soulful. One can hear her genuine love for Christmas and her holiday spirit. She sings beautifully in French and English, performing each song from the heart. She starts with her heartfelt rendition of Mon plus beau Noël (a Christmas single by the late Johnny Hallyday). Her rendition of River (the original version performed by Joni Mitchell) has a lovely Dolly Parton vibe. She has a heartfelt rendition of Mary Did You Know in a French version (Marie, savais-tu?). She did her own impressive spin on beautiful, memorable pieces, such as Petit Garçon and Amazing Grace. She ends the album with a heartfelt rendition of O Holy Night (Minuit Chrétien). Laurence Jalbert honoured these Christmas classics, pouring her heart and soul into each piece.
The album Un coeur d’enfant pour Noël is available
