Melody
Although Gainsbourg and Birkin had appeared in a string of films since their magnetic collision in Pierre Grimblatâs Slogan, Melody was a bit of diversion from their collaborations since itâs a series of interwoven videos inspired by the Gainsbourgalbum. For '71 itâs a novel concept to bring visual life to an LP, but even more surprising are the short filmâs amazing visuals that director Averty crafted using a wealth of video filters, overlays, camera movements and chroma key effects. Averty applies these in tandem with the increasing tone of Gainsbourgâs songs, which more or less chronicle an older man's affair with a young girl. Each song is comprised of steady, sometimes brooding poetic delivery, with refrains timed to the phrase repeats of each song, while Alan Parkerâs buzzing guitar accompanies and wiggles around Gainsbourgâs resonant voice. The bass is fat and groovy, the drums easy but steady, and the periodic use of strings or rich vibrato makes this short a sultry little gem.
1971-12-22
