Spoken Word never sounded so good

Lou Reed is among the artists collaborating on a new spoken word album. The former Velvet Underground frontman recites Paul Theroux’s poem ‘Passengers’. ‘Recitement’ comprises of a diverse set of literary source texts reinterpreted to a soundtrack of original music compositions. Stephen Emmer's music is haunting, and Tony's Visconti's mix is astounding. A gorgeous collaboration of talented minds. Reed/Emmer/Visconti. Awesome!

The record features recitals from numerous musicians, including Blonde Redhead singer Kazu Makino, plus writers like Allen Ginsberg and actors including Richard Burton. The literature is drawn from such diverse writers as Yoko Ono and Thomas Hardy.

The 17 tracks are performed in seven different languages and are mixed by Tony Visconti. The legendary producer, famed for his work with David Bowie and T-Rex, is expected to begin work on Klaxons second album at the end of the month.

‘Recitement’ is the brainchild of leading avant-garde music composer Stephen Emmer. Emmer began his career in experimental Dutch band Minny Pops, who were signed to Factory Records. Fans of Lou Reed will be pleased he has undertaken a project with a degree of musical integrity after mixed reactions to his recent collaboration with The Killers on the track ‘Tranquillize.’

‘Recitement’ is released by Supertracks Records in the UK on 7th April 2008. Spoken word combined with original music composition never sounded so good.

[Clearday Nebraska - Editorial Review]