Yvan Ouellette's name goes way back in the annals of progressive rock music in Québec. As a member of both Ville Emard Blues Band and one of its early off-shoots ,Toubabou, Yvan has played a pivotal role in the early development of this type of music in this region of the world. In 1979, at the urging of Yves Laferrière (bass player for VEBB and Contraction as well as producer of this album) Yvan Ouellette pooled together material he'd written, some going back to his teenage years, and released Le Chant Des Choses.
No less than nine guest musicians appear on this release, including notables such as the above-mentioned Mr Laferrière (bass on track 7) and Christiane Robichaud (vocals on tracks 1,3,7), both of Contraction fame. Through 7 tracks, Yvan Ouellette presents a very laid back, almost adult contemporary music. His instrument of choice is the grand piano, which plays a prominent role in every number. Toubabou fans will recognize the opening piece, which is a revamped version of "Le Chant Des Choses", with Ouellette crooning in a very pleasant, almost baritone voice. This track sets the tone for the rest of the album. The music is very ethereal and soothing. The highlights are probably the very lovely "Sagittaire" which features the exquisite vocals of Christiane Robichaud, and the seemingly totally improvised solo piano version of The Beatles' "Fool On The Hill".
Although not a progressive rock album at all, it just seemed logical for the folks at ProgQuébec to release this disc, given the major players involved with this project. Le Chant Des Choses is a soft, pastoral album for those moments of quiet introspection. It's a perfect Sunday morning disc.
Track Listing:
- Le Chant Des Choses (3:54)
- De Mont St-Pierre à Tahiti (4:43)
- Sagittaire (8:10)
- Escale à Clipperton (3:45)
- Le Temps A Laissé Son Manteau (2:51)
- The Fool On The Hill (6:47)
- Mutation (3:58)
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