Voyage a Paris: Chansons Francaises (Dawson, Drake)

LYNNE DAWSON & JULIUS DRAKE's "Voyage A Paris/Chansons Francaises" takes us on a musical journey across the Channel, but does it hit all the right notes or get lost in translation? The answer? Ooh la la, it's a magnifique delight! Dawson's vocals are like a fine Bordeaux - full-bodied, rich, and perfectly aged. She effortlessly glides through French classics like "La Vie en Rose" and "Sous le Ciel de Paris," transporting you to a quaint Parisian cafe with each note. Drake's piano accompaniment is the perfect pairing to Dawson's vocals, adding a touch of je ne sais quoi to each track. His mastery of the keys elevates the emotional depth of the songs, making you feel as if you're strolling along the Seine at sunset. But it's not all croissants and champagne; there are moments where the album veers into cliché territory, with overly dramatic flourishes and predictable arrangements. It's like being served a plate of escargot only to find out it's just garden snails. Overall, "Voyage A Paris/Chansons Francaises" is a delightful romp through the French songbook, with Dawson and Drake serving as the perfect tour guides. So grab a beret, pour yourself a glass of wine, and let this album whisk you away to the City of Light. Santé!