Pierre Vervloesem - Pierre Vervloesem’s Flambant Neuf (LP)

Pierre Vervloesem's "Flambant Neuf" is a captivating journey through the realms of French jazz, jazz fusion, avant-garde, and progressive rock. Released on September 17, 2021, under the Off. label, this studio album marks Pierre Vervloesem's return to the music scene in a dynamic quintet format. Collaborating with some of Belgium's finest musicians, including Bruno Vansina, Teun Verbruggen, Thomas Mayade, and Falk Schrauwen, Vervloesem delivers an impressive 46-minute collection of eight tracks that showcase his versatility and innovation.

The album opens with "Route 65," a seven-and-a-half-minute exploration of jazz-rock fusion, setting the tone for the eclectic mix that follows. Tracks like "Be Nomuchongoyo" and "Grand Outlandish Hotel" delve into experimental and avant-garde territories, while "Exmoor Horn" and "Rigor Mortis" highlight Vervloesem's ability to blend progressive rock elements seamlessly with jazz. The album concludes with "Chinese Facelift," a track that encapsulates the album's spirit of innovation and creativity.

"Flambant Neuf" has been well-received by critics and listeners alike, earning a rating of 3.44 out of 5 on Rate Your Music. The album's unique blend of genres and Vervloesem's distinctive style make it a standout release in the contemporary jazz and rock landscape. Whether you're a longtime fan of Pierre Vervloesem or a newcomer to his music, "Flambant Neuf" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the artist's continued evolution and mastery of his craft.