Zachary Richard
Migration
RZ Records – 2001
Release date – 1977
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This disc is an often over-looked piece of work in this artist’s repertoire, and it is a puzzle as to why. Maybe because it is entirely sung in French and not English, but whatever the reason for the puzzle it is a disc that should be sought out. This is one of his finest pieces of work in many ways, though the words are just accessible to people who speak French, the sentiment expressed vividly comes through. On this recording it truly features {$Mr. Richard}’s very fine and expressive voice. He has one of the finest singing voices today in Cajun/Zydeco world. He uses his music as a tool to reach out further for his activism for Cajun rights. On this disc he has a tight band that is supporting him every step of the way, while at the same time giving him the room to his voice shine through and be the instrument that propels this disc to its heights. In turn he gives these musicians the room and instrumental breaks to shine and step forth and show their merit. It is the songs and the treatment of them that earns this record such high marks. {$Zachary Richard} has again shown us the depth and breath of his talents.
Songs, times and writer (all written by Zachary Richard)
1 Migration 6:16
2 Son Premier Bal 4:13
3 Comme Une Oiseaue, Comme Deux Loups 7:43
4 Les Ailes Des Hirondelles 2:50
5 La Ballade De Jackie Vautour 6:19
6 La Ballade De Beausoleil 9:29
7 La Berceuse Creole 3:30
Musicians
Zachary Richard –acoustic guitars, piano, and voice, producer
Bruce MacDonald – lead and rhythm guitar
Dana Pierre Breaux – lead and rhythm guitar
Ronny Domingue – bass
Kenneth Blevins – drums
Michel Seguin – tambourine and percussion
Robert Stanley – lead and rhythm guitar
Richard Beaudet – saxophones
Jeff Fisher – synthesizer
Michel Dion – bass
Denis Farmer – drums
Chorus d’Oiseaux
Alma Fay Brooks
Laurie Niedzielski
Judi Richards
Roy Harrington