SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: JEAN-MICHEL JARRE – VERSAILLES 400

JEAN-MICHEL JARRE
VERSAILLES 400
SONY MUSIC

On December 25, 2023, Jean-Michel Jarre performed a concert in the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles in France. The show was designed to celebrate the 400^th anniversary of the Château de Versailles, also known as The Palace of Versailles. In typical Jarre fashion, it was more than just a concert or performance. Jarre created an event. The music and the visuals were astounding and musically there were some surprises along with some classic Jarre music.

The concert opens with JB Lully’s (1632-1687) “Marche pour la cérémonie des Turcs” (“March For The Ceremony of the Turks” from the ballet/comedy Le bourgeois gentilhomme (The Bourgeois Gentleman). Here Jarre performs the classical piece in his own, distinct way, never losing the beauty of the work itself. This is quickly followed by one of Jarre’s newest pieces, from last year’s album Oxymore. The juxtaposition from Lully to Jarre is not as jarring as one would expect, but it does make the bold statement of 400 years of music in one evening.

It is hard to believe that the music was recorded live, as in true Jarre style, the music is performed perfectly, and the sound is fantastic. It is only when one hears the crowd that it is confirmed that this is, indeed, a live recording. The album sounds incredible, and the choice of material is perfect. Some of Jarre;s most well-known songs are performed (“Oxygène 2”, “Équinoxe 4”) and the songs are very well received.

There are also some special guests, including Tangerine Dream (on “Zero Gravity”), Jeff Mills (“The Architect”) and Armin van Burren (the closing “Stardust”). The guests bring their sound and style to the proceedings, and, as with all Jarre collaborations, it works and fits into the concept perfectly. These songs, along with the other chosen songs in the performance all come together for a beautiful celebration.

Versailles 400 was also filmed and released as a live concert film. While the visuals are simply stunning and breathtaking, the music survives on its own as evidenced with this release. There are examples of concerts needing the visual, but in this instance, the music speaks for itself. While the film of the concert adds a whole other dimension to the music, in this format, Jarre is able to present what he does best. Versailles 400 is a near perfect live recording and is an absolutely pleasurable listening experience.

SPILL FILM REVIEW: JEAN-MICHEL JARRE – VERSAILLES 400

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