Anne Azéma - Le jeu d'amour (LP)

Anne Azéma's "Le jeu d'amour: The Game of Love in Medieval France" is a captivating journey through the medieval musical landscape, released in 1997 under Warner Classics International. This album is a testament to Anne Azéma's exquisite vocal prowess, accompanied by a talented ensemble of musicians including Shira Kammen on vielle and rebec, Jesse Lepkoff on flute and recorder, Robert Mealy on vielle and harp, and Margriet Tindemans on vielle and gittern. The collection features 17 tracks, spanning a total duration of 59 minutes, each piece meticulously crafted to evoke the essence of medieval France.

The album showcases a diverse range of compositions, from the lyrical elegance of Moniot d'Arras' "Ce fu en mai, au dous tens gai" to the playful charm of Colin Muset's "En mai." Anne Azéma's interpretation of these timeless pieces is both sensitive and dynamic, bringing to life the nuances of medieval courtly love and the intricate emotions it inspired. The instrumentation is rich and varied, with the vielle, rebec, flute, recorder, and harp creating a tapestry of sound that transports the listener to a bygone era.

"Le jeu d'amour" is not just a collection of songs but a carefully curated exploration of medieval music, highlighting both well-known and lesser-known composers. The album includes works by Thibaut de Champagne, Jehannot de l'Escurel, Adam de la Halle, and Guillaume de Machaut, among others. Each track is a window into the past, offering a glimpse into the musical traditions and cultural context of medieval France.

Anne Azéma's "Le jeu d'amour" is a must-listen for anyone interested in medieval music, offering a rich and immersive experience that showcases the beauty and complexity of this historical period. The album is a celebration of love, music, and the enduring legacy of medieval composers, brought to life by Anne Azéma's enchanting voice and the skillful accompaniment of her fellow musicians.