Noel Noel/Raymond Souplex "Les Princes De L'Humour Montartois" (Forlane, 1992)
Two comedic singers whose solo recordings (Noel's work dating from 1930-32, Souplex's from 1934-35) are gathered together on this generously programmed disc. A diehard fan of French cabaret may find this a real gem -- musically, though, these tracks may be too firmly anchored in the traditions of the music hall. The halting, nudge-nudge delivery of these world-play romps is less inviting and less rewarding than other chansonniers of the time, who managed to be both glib and melodic. Historically of interest, but not that much fun just taken as music.
