Evasions by Les Troubadours De L’Eau Noire: A 1978 Belgian Pop Gem That Still Floats
Alright, let’s talk about Evasions, the quirky little album from Les Troubadours De L’Eau Noire, a band you probably haven’t heard of unless you’re deep into obscure Belgian pop. Released in 1978 under the label GIP, this record is like that one random sweater you find at a thrift store—it might not look like much at first glance, but once you give it some time, it grows on you in ways you didn’t expect.
First off, can we just take a moment to appreciate how delightfully all-over-the-place this tracklist is? You’ve got everything from traditional folk vibes (American Folksongs) to what sounds like someone trying to write an anthem for world peace while slightly tipsy (Shalom). And don’t even get me started on the French titles sprinkled throughout—this thing reeks of Euro-charm, albeit in a “we tried our best” kind of way.
Now, onto the meat and potatoes—or should I say waffles and frites? Two tracks really stuck with me after spinning this baby. First up: “Malheur à Celui Qui Blesse Un Enfant.” Yeah, yeah, big fancy title alert, but stick with me here. This song hits different. It’s basically a haunting reminder that messing with kids is bad karma—and honestly? More songs should tackle heavy topics like this. The melody sneaks up on you, slow and somber, like a cat eyeing a goldfish bowl. By the end, you're left wondering if you've done enough good deeds lately. Heavy stuff, man.
Then there’s “L’Important C’est La Rose,” which feels like walking through a garden where every flower has had one too many glasses of champagne. It’s sweet without being saccharine, romantic without being cheesy, and it makes you want to grab someone special and dance awkwardly in your living room. Or maybe that’s just me? Either way, it’s catchy as heck and proves these troubadours knew their way around crafting a tune.
The rest of the album keeps things interesting, bouncing between genres faster than a caffeinated DJ. One minute you’re swaying to Kalinka, the next you’re humming along to La Paloma. It’s chaotic, sure, but also oddly charming. Like when your eccentric uncle shows up unannounced and somehow becomes the life of the party.
Here’s the kicker though: listening to Evasions feels like stepping into a time capsule filled with mismatched treasures. Some pieces shine brighter than others, but they all contribute to the overall charm. And isn’t that what music’s supposed to do? Remind us that beauty doesn’t always have to be polished or perfect?
So, would I recommend giving Evasions a spin? Absolutely—if only so you can brag about discovering a hidden gem before everyone else does. Just don’t blame me if you start randomly quoting French lyrics at parties. Trust me, people will either think you’re super cool or totally nuts. Your call.
Final thought: If music were food, this album would be a plate of leftovers turned into something surprisingly delicious. Now go listen—you won’t regret it. Probably.
