:: Various Artists - Happiness For Your Soul & Body: By Claude Challe

Various Artists

The classy musical forays of Claude Challe have been spoken about in glowing terms over a long period of time. Claude has become a guru for many keen followers of the sophisticated lounge styles recordings and he places his mark on this soothing selection in which his brother Jean Marc has some input. “Happiness” matches the value of previous releases but there is added punch in turning ambience into a subtle pop-rock sense and accompanying such influences as tango, electro, oriental grooves, and house. The quality matches the variety and he creates emotion and soulful textures with the array of artists involved. Earl T’s soothing vocals on a slightly quicker house-flavoured “Summertime” are noteworthy as is the house mix by Felix da Housecat on “Sinnerman”. There are tastes as varied as Billy Idol and Zino and Tommy. Delerium is also a welcome addition with the terrific vocals. Probably aimed at a mature listening audience, this CD is different from what you might expect from Claude. It could be seen as a mish-mash of styles, but it’s still there to be acknowledged as a recognisable and worthy compilation.