SE PASSER DES VISAGES might well be that record which, ironically, will put Tom Poisson’s face in the limelight in 2020. After a 15 years career, this new record includes songs which should be taken at face value, since they shed new light on the artist’s character. The songs which deal with such topics as domestic violence (Trois Bleus de Plus), the tragedy of migrants (Se Passer des Visages), and the triumph over one’s own fears (Ma Peur), have light and bouncy melodies to soothe the depth of the lyrics. Tunes and guitars have a quality of simplicity which is immediately catchy. Arrangements by Tom Poisson with partners Alexandre L?authaud and Fred Pallem then pave the way for more complex patterns, including electronica gimmicks which emphasize the rhythm section. The impish Les Fant?mes showcases the bond between Tom Poisson and Laurence Jaillet, and that between CLIO and Poisson on La Chanson, the last track. Whereas it is always an option – and sometimes a necessity – To do without faces, doing without Tom Poisson’s ten new songs will turn out to be a real challenge.
