Canadian multi-instrumentalist Pierre Chrétien, who also plays with groups like The Souljazz Orchestra, Atlantis Jazz Ensemble and Slim Moore & the Mar-Kays, has just released his debut solo album, titled Les Paradis artificiels on Marlow Records, under the alias Cinephonic.

Inspired by classic French film soundtracks and library music, this brilliant nine-track album blends together layered cinematic landscapes, soulful keys and vibraphone-based melodies, moody atmospheric tones, and instrumental hip-hop grooves. The recording also flows nicely from one track to the next, similar to what you typically hear on soundtracks.

While Chrétien plays mellotron, piano and vibraphone on the recording, the session also includes heavyweight hip-hop drummer Robert Biesewig (Wu-Tang Clan, Havoc, Alchemist) and versatile percussionist Marielle Rivard (The Souljazz Orchestra, Slim Moore & the Mar-Kays).

Overall, Chrétien and company have put together a really solid debut release, and the perfect moody soundtrack-like recording as we enter the cooler fall months. Now I just look forward to seeing the movie …

Cinephonic — ‘Les Paradis artificiels’
(Marlow Records)

1. Aube sur la ville
2. Éveil de la cité
3. Paradis artificiels
4. Les Corbeaux
5. Le Petit Cimetière
6. Béton et ferraille
7. Fleurs de bitume
8. Illusions perdues
9. Après, le déluge

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