Post by davidhr on Nov 4, 2014 10:54:26 GMT -5
A relatively quiet week for Lara, compared with the last few, although various media releases became available.
Of perhaps highest quality was the broadcast of Lara’s appearance on ‘part 2’ of the show ‘Les enfants du Top 50’. The high quality video of her solo of ‘Une femme avec une femme’ is available at:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjUPhkUiBvM
Another great performance/video, with Lara passionately expressing words that align with her belief system. One can see how impressed the audience and co-hosts were…again, if nothing else, this project must certainly raise her status in the eyes of the French public, for whom she would otherwise be relatively absent.
[Nevertheless, it is perhaps indicative of Lara’s current popularity in that country that this link is the only one available on youtube of the TV broadcast of Lara’s performance. Also, it came several days after numerous people had written in to Lara’s FB site asking how they could see it outside of France – a complaint that included people from Belgium as well! In contrast, the video of Lara with Yoann Freget of ‘On se retrouvera’ from the show the week before appeared almost instantly and from many different sources. Yoann of course was the winner of season 2 of the French competition series ‘The Voice’, and is apparently more up-front in the public’s mind.]
On the show itself, Lara repeated that her new French album will be out in April, but added the disclaimer ‘if all goes well’. Those who have followed the actual release dates of Lara’s albums are well aware of that caveat!
The phrase ‘relatively absent’ was used above because Lara had additional exposure to her French audience through the release of her duet with Michel Jonasz of ‘Parler d’amour’. This is a cut on the album “Sidaction-Kiss & Love” that pays homage to the 20th anniversary of ‘Sidaction’, the fight against AIDS. As explained by Pascal Obispo, "Kiss & Love" refers to the famous kiss from actress Clémentine Célarié of an HIV-positive patient to prove that it is not a risky practice. The album can be bought at (http://www.amazon.fr/Sidaction-Kiss-Love-Multi-Artistes/dp/B00NT2NF62/) among other places (not all of which will sell outside France). For those who haven’t heard it, Lara’s duet is available at:
www.larafabianbrasil.com.br/2014/10/ouca-musica-parler-damour-dueto-entre.html
It’s also available at vk.com/lf_cp; just scroll down to the ‘audio files’. [There are also audio files available there for the full concerts in Helsinki and Turku as wel]l.
Here’s a translation of an article from ‘Le Parisien’ discussing the album release:
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For the 20th anniversary of Sidaction, an association fighting against AIDS created and led by Line Renaud and Pierre Berge, Pascal Obispo succeeded in a ‘tour de force’ of bringing together 80 singers, comedians and entertainers for "Kiss & Love" and its incredible clip, and 42 others on the double album of reprises, due out November 3.
In this album, Jean-Jacques Goldman, so quiet the past ten years, retakes with Claire Keim "Ça," a little-known gem of Zazie. "I called Jean-Jacques and he immediately said yes", says Pascal Obispo, who has received the Grand Prix SACEM in the creator-performer category of French songs. "I offered him, as to the others, a list of 50 songs expected to move people the most. He wanted to sing Ça with Claire. He sang in Marseille, she in my studio. But that's not for me, it is the cause that brought together all these people."
Some of his guests are from the Enfoires. Zaz and Christophe Mae put a bit of Sting and reggae in the "Foule sentimentale" of Souchon, his longtime friends. Pagny and Bruel are found, a rare thing for "Un homme heureux" of Sheller, while Maurane and Christophe Willem join their great voices on "Fais-moi une place" of Julien Clerc.
Some unexpected duets are wonderful. Zaho and Yannick Noah emphasize the emotion of " Voilà, c’est fini " by Jean-Louis Aubert without being too strong, while Lara Fabian and Michel Jonasz do " Parler d’amour" in the footsteps of Art Mengo. In short, not another cover album, a great disc for a great cause.
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A video news report of the creation of the video, with Lara appearing at the 3 second mark, can be seen at: www.bfmtv.com/mediaplayer/video/kiss-and-love-obispo-mobilise-les-artistes-pour-le-sidaction-344598.html (although again she is not mentioned in the report). The video 'Kiss and Love' with French lyrics can be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNcp-T5pNGI.
As many people have pointed out, Lara has sung with Michel Jonasz before in support of Sidaction, in 2006, available at:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcHds19I2Ac
My reaction to the current offering, as well as that one, was that the quality of their voices is too disparate for the duet to be successful, although it does grow on you after awhile. Lara sounds wonderful, at least.
A picture of the two of them can be seen at:
www.facebook.com/164644456884508/photos/a.795699763778971.1073741826.164644456884508/978875918794687/?type=1&theater
There will be a TV broadcast of ‘An Evening of Sidaction’ (http://www.emissions-tv.com/emissions/57/la_soiree_du_sidaction) to be recorded November 16th and 17th. Lara is not listed as being there, and it is probably doubtful that she could make it as she will be in Moscow for the event with Krutoi on the 15th and 16th.
Of additional interest, Lara’s appearance on this album is listed as being with the permission of ‘Odacity’. That raises the obvious question of what exactly is her relationship to that company? On their website, Odacity is described as, “an independent music and entertainment company, which includes a Record Label (Odacity Records), audiovisual productions unit and Management of Artists. The company's activities in Europe (Brussels) and the USA (Los Angeles) cover Audiovisual productions, Management of Artists; publishing; production , exhibition, merchandising and other entertainment related productions, including TV, Film, and private events”. Is Lara an official part of their ‘roster’, like she was with Universal, or are they simply the distributors of her work, as Warner and Universal were for ‘Le Secret’? If they are now her ‘record company’, do they have a say as to what she releases, maybe part of the ‘if all goes well’ aspect for the coming French album? These are not the type of questions Lara or her people ever answer, so we’ll have to wait and see…
Additional ‘media’ offerings became available, now referring to Lara’s recent tour. From her time in the Czech Republic, first there was an interview with her (http://musicserver.cz/clanek/48531/lara-fabian-forum-karlin-praha-16-10-2014/). The article was made available by the ‘Lara Fabian Czech’ fanclub, and it was translated into English by ‘Mirka’ for the ‘Lara Fabian est ton autre’ FB site. It is copied here with just a few alterations…
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Reporter: Have you ever been in the Czech Republic?
Lara: Yes, a few times. When I had the opportunity to get to know Prague for the first time I found it a very inspiring and beautiful city. Then I was there in 2012 when I had a concert. I really loved to be here.
R: Concert's tickets were sold out very soon and you had to add one more concert. Were you surprised?
L: It certainly surprised me but it was a good opportunity to arrange one more concert. It's magical but it's always a bit of a surprise. That's why I'm doing this concert. It is such a nice gift.
R: You sing in English, French and in many others languages. Which one is dearest for you?
L: Every language is specific in something and that touches me. I enjoy singing in languages which I sing, but most in the tongue of my mother, who came from Italy. That's an especially touching one for me.
R: Last year you had health problems with ears and that was why you canceled concerts. This means that you came healthy to the Czech Republic?
L: Certainly, I return healthy to Czech Republic. I had a time for rest that was needed.
R: Your songs are well known here in our country, especially "Je suis malade" or "Je t´aime". Which song do you like most of your creation?
L: In French it is certainly the song "Pas sans toi". This is a song I wrote a long time ago. It's a song about love, which can be sung to the public.
R: Your husband is the magician Gabriel di Giorgio. Did he try some of his spells on you?
L: Yes and it really worked, I succumbed to his charm. I fell in love with him. I still remember our first meeting.
R: Would you say that you have a magical relationship?
L: Sure, but I will say nothing further about our relationship.
R: You are not only a singer but you are also a mother. Is it difficult to find a time for family and for work?
L: You know no matter what you are doing, when you are a mother, you must be a little superhero whether you are singer, teacher or baker. Whatever amount of work you have, you must do it.
R: Do you think that your daughter Lou will want to become a singer too?
L: I really do not know. I´m not really sure. We say "an apple does not fall far from the tree" but I have a feeling that it will not work with my daughter.
R: Do you sing with her?
L: I´m doing with her many different things, for example sing, dance...
R: Do you think the way that society sees homosexuality has changed?
L: I always wanted people to be tolerant but it is difficult to say whether the perception of people has changed. I still see that this has changed more in places that seem most advanced, intellectual,... So unfortunately, I think that artists should continue to sing the songs that support the tolerance. Even though it may be only a small step to tolerance. We have not won yet. It is important that people who love each other didn't have to hide.
R: Do you support the adoption of children by homosexual couples?
L: Yes. I don't have a problem with love, I do support that, and when you support something you can´t be against the family. It would not make any sense. You can not separate the one from the other. I personally perceive it so that love and family can´t be separated from each other. It is perfectly legal for me.
R: You're a singer, but sometimes the politics mixed with music. You had to cancel a concert in Uzbekistan. Are you sorry?
L: For me policy and music have nothing in common. What I know for sure is that when I go to another country, I go there to see their people. I'm not going there for politicians. And that´s why I cancelled the concert in Uzbekistan. It would be led by politicians and it is not right. And I want to sing for people. In any country that has allowed me to share with them about it.
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Then a review of the concert itself (http://musicserver.cz/clanek/48531/lara-fabian-forum-karlin-praha-16-10-2014/) by Markéta Bínová, thanks to the Lara Fabian Czech page. Here’s the translation:
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The second Czech date of Lara Fabian
A few years ago, it seemed almost impossible to us that the Belgian-Canadian Lara Fabian gives a concert. Then she came to the sold-out Smetana Hall of the Municipal House, and it was a matter of time before she came back to the Czech Republic. It was this year, when she sang in the concert hall of the Karlin Forum. And it was again a great experience.
When two years ago Lara Fabian sang at the Municipal House, she picked up a stone while walking as a promise to come back here again. And behold it worked. For her next tour, she could not have missed the Czech Republic. In addition, with the announcement of her concert, tickets for Karlin Forum began to sell well so it was necessary to add an additional date. Who would have expected? So especially after learning of the announcement of a concert for those of you who would be going there, and those of you just questioning who would not ...
Unlike the first concert with her, this time Lara had a slightly richer stage scene. Not that she had prepared a monster production, it is all about her music, but on stage were placed four heavy frames and in each of them sat one of the musicians. From the first notes, however, it was possible to see only their silhouettes for all frames were covered with a backlit curtain. However, the introductory notes contained bits and pieces of high quality, heavy caliber notes. The singer opened the concert with one of her biggest hits, "Je T'aime" and you can hardly imagine what response it aroused. During these two years, none of her talent has been lost, and I guarantee you that it was heard Thursday by the fans at the concert, such that neither of the parties on SuperStar and similar compititions ever sing like that. So much emotion, positions, crystal clear tones combined with the power of voice is unique.
The concert continued and an even more elaborate second song "J'y Crois Encore" was no different. It was only during the latter that the curtain fell and the images of the silhouettes were finally transformed into musicians. At the time of another song, piano, drums and guitar and bass were added that certainly benefited the sound. Although it is more for heavy music, in the case of the Lara Fabian show, it sounded rather nice, and much better accompanied by the voice of the singer who excelled. In addition, it allowed more dynamic things like "Make Me Yours Tonight" or "Mademoiselle Hyde" from the musical project "Mademoiselle Zhivago". It was a great distraction from the beautiful quieter songs with classical melodies.
The show was all a bit more varied than the first time. For example, among the usual French and English titles, some sounded more "Italian", not to mention songs like "Alfonsina y el mar", which all have enriched Spanish and Latin content. In addition to her own songs included in the program, Lara did "Angel" by Sarah McLachlan, on which she has slightly changed the rhythm, that was unusual on the one hand, but refreshing on the other.
When I mentioned musicians, each presented his instrumental art in addition to the work that has been mainly demonstrated in the shadow of the singer. Everyone got room for one solo, which was used mostly by percussionist Rony Iwryn. While I thought it was "too much", others were really enthusiastic about the improvised intermezzo of splashing water bongos, gurgling and bells. The case was also similar to the introduction of the bass guitar on "Yeliel (My Angel)", which was unnecessarily progressive and dissonant. On the other hand, on the song itself the whole quartet played in excellent spirits, until I felt the taste of all four instruments. It was one of those rare moments where the gentlemen were given more attention. Otherwise, the stage was overshadowed by the delicate and incredibly expressive lady.
There is no doubt that Lara Fabian, who this time came in an elegant black dress, had the whole audience perfectly in hand. Regardless of the number of foreigners in the audience and the number of Czechs, everything was successful, thanks to the excellent acoustics of the room, and her singing voice, uniting respectively. Although we heard her repeatedly, we simply could not get enough of the absolute certainty with which she would attack one tone after another, even in the most difficult transitions and the most difficult rhythmics, regardless of range. And it does not matter if it is just in the typically French pop, Latin, or perhaps a more revealing song. Even the words have a beautiful melody. The depth of her singing is so amazing and vibrant you feel it is hard to describe. The audience felt the same way, at least according to the tumultuous reaction at the end of the songs, but mainly due to the expression of a spontaneous moments of enthusiasm in their course.
Of that, among other things, when performing she acted as an etheral being who is passionately interested in her transcendent soul, and then during one song turned into a normal woman who was joking with you about constantly moving things around the stage, which apparently she does at home, and which gets her husband mad. She still has a strong relationship with her fans, and therefore gladly talked with them between songs, but also took flowers, gifts and so on. And one of the strongest moments of the concert was when she admitted how on her return to Prague she was even more impressed than when she came for the first time. Or, when seated at the piano, for the song ‘Pas sans toi’, she was grateful to those who are always there for her.
On the contrary, the strongest musical experience was the penultimate song "Je suis malade", which we know from Mary Rottrová as "To tak mám Rada." Lara Fabian’s version is far more than just singing and was one in which she declaimed the most. Thus with those stanzas, because the whole was such a force she sang without a microphone. No wonder then, that at the interpretation of the last note, the entire hall was on its feet and with endless applause asking for an encore. It came in the form of the classic "Adagio", this time sung in English, which is among the best pieces. Then she promised to come back soon and disappeared into the wings.
Lara Fabian and her second concert convinced that she is still the best contemporary pop singer in the world. Although related to the current pop, it can not be treated so literally, because the current pop seems a bit different, so it remains in a more classical approach. On the other hand, the age of the general audience was the most diverse that you can imagine, and everyone was very happy when they left nonetheless. They love her, regardless of the chosen song and literally devoured her every tone in all languages and she loved them in return. So: Au revoir Madame Lara and return again soon to the Czech Republic."
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Lara ought to put this review up on her wall, and any time she feels low, read through it again. It could not have been more laudatory.
Finally there was an interview before the tour started for the Russian weekly newspaper “Arguments and Facts”, for which ‘AIF Europa’ is a regional offshoot (http://www.europa-reporter.eu/exklusiv/) (thanks to ‘Lara Fabian Connecting People’ for the link). Here’s the (approximate) translation:
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Secrets of Lara Fabian
"What I want to share - you will find in my songs, but not in social networks" , - told Lara Fabian in an exclusive interview with " AiF.Evropa "
"Arguments and Facts" with love from Lara Fabian. "AiF.Evropa"
From 5 through October 10, 2014 Lara Fabian will perform before the German public. Munich, Berlin, Offenbach, Düsseldorf and Hanover - five cities, with which the singer has decided to start her tour in Europe.
- Lara, you played in prestigious venues in different countries, among them the New York Carnegie Hall, and the Parisian "Olympia" and the Kremlin Concert Hall in Moscow. And here in Germany you go to give concerts for the first time. Although it would seem, it's around the corner from Belgium, where you live ...
- My hero Paulo Coelho had to go around the world to meet his fate near his home. But for some reason he took this trip ... a Life tour - a very strange and unpredictable thing. It turned out that my first professional success despite having Italian mother and Belgian father, came ... in Canada! Then fate circled me well to different cities and countries, but the feeling of home, the roots, I was always there. As for Germany, I have participated in the German TV show Wetten Dass, and the audience seemed very open and emotional. I feel as if I open the house where things have grown. Like all the same, but something has changed, so we'll see how the trees became more. (Smiles.)
- Your latest album is called "Le Secret", that's the mystery hidden in it?
This is a symbolic name, of course. The secret is in each of us. Different. And in this album I wanted to emphasize that the spring - is inside. Happiness - is the work and effort, it is not a given. Love, suffering, death of a loved one - these feelings are familiar to everyone. How grinding it all is, living from day to day, to find joy and harmony - everyone has his own secret. About myself I can say that I am patient and stubborn, and I believe in randomness of patterns that happen to us.
Social Networks, Real Diaries
- For many years you wrote a personal diary. It was replaced by social networks?
- My diary I started as a very young girl. To write down all my feelings, emotions, feelings, fears, meetings and partings, in general, the points that I wanted to fix. Then it stopped, just a couple of years ago. (Giggles). This is how much I used up, it turns out? And why it was stopped, too, I do not know, probably, the stage stopped, moments passed into something else. It is possible that over time, when I'm more adult (laughs), I will write an autobiography.
Social networks - it is rather the maintenance of contact with the public, informing them of new songs and concerts in the first person, first hand. Manifestation of gratitude. But something personal, intimate cares of me and my family - this is not there and can not be. In this diary, I could write something in two or three hours in a row; a social network - it's news stuffing two lines, no more. All that I want to share with the public is through my songs, music and lyrics.
- You have a lot of fans who you call angels. But there is another audience - who criticizes you and your work, not choosing expressions ... How do you respond?
- There were many difficult moments in my life, and my fans support with their love and faith in me. So who are they then, if not angels? (Laughs.) And the criticism, I react like a normal person. And be hurt and upset and disappointed and annoyed ... especially when I see something completely unjust and evil. But I never responded to this kind of attacks. Well it was said I was too thin (thick); loud screaming, not singing; not "beautiful", as the younger sister of Cinderella - well, what now? People change, grow old, after all. Pierre Richard once said: "I'm going down the street, suddenly in front of me someone said, stunned:" Is that you, Pierre ?! "-" I do not know, not sure. " - "Something about you today is somehow not in the form of ..." "I didn’t comb my hair" - I answer and move on, leaving him with memories of me 30 years ago. " I am aware that the famous people are doomed to be stroked, not only be in furs, it is the flip side of the coin called "success."
Error with consequences
- To the same side of the coin it is true that the life of an artist is surrounded by rumors. That's about you saying that your husband is terribly jealous that you bought a house in Moscow and received Russian citizenship and would soon become a mother for the second time ...
- My husband - a favorite. House - here it is, look for a window that - really the Kremlin? (Leaping laughs.) Oh, my God, will come up as well ... I have the nationality of Belgium and Canada. I live in Brussels with husband Gabriel and daughter, Lou. A dog that's still there, Scilla, her eleven years, our miracle. Regarding pregnancy - on all the will of God ...
- But the fact that you have had serious health problems and doctors have forbidden you to speak - is that not true?
- This is terrible and stupid story that happened almost a year ago, when during the rehearsal, I was stunned with maximum decibels. Error of one of engineers, nearly led to the tragedy. I lost consciousness, but was still able to speak and then go to the public. Some time later, I realized that something was not right what was happening to me. The doctor diagnosed quickly and accurately. The forecasts were pessimistic that threatened hearing loss, and we were forced to suspend my tour, to avoid complications. Then, leaving the office of the professor, I looked up and said, "Look, it's just a mistake that guy, he is terribly upset. It was not written in your book, so give me a couple of months, I can handle. " Whether I was able to deal with him, or whether I was treated by very good doctors in Paris and Brussels, supported by my family, or all together - thank you from my heart to all for your understanding, patience and kindness!
Expensive diamonds
- You were recently in Istanbul and immediately - rise to the first position in the Turkish charts ...
- Thank you Mustafa Checheli - a wonderful singer and a man, together we recorded a duet "Make Me Yours Tonight". It is very popular in Turkey, and what I met there was just wonderful! Sea, sun, beach, Mediterranean cuisine, applauding audience - recreation, not work! (Laughs.) The women there are very beautiful: some wearing a hijab to the neck. I loved the variety. When it is voluntarily - what's the problem? My grandmother wore on her breast a large Catholic Cross - all of their own faith, their secrets, their views on life. By the way, perhaps, Mustafa will play with me, and in some cities in Germany - imagine a blend of lyrical Fabian and hot Turkish guy? (Laughs.)
- You sing in English, French, Italian, Spanish ...
- ... in German, Russian, Turkish. By the way, say, in Russia there was a very popular Brazilian TV series "Clone" - the soundtrack to it I sing in Portuguese. I easily get languages, but I speak freely the ones you have listed.
- Always popular artists have to be away on the road. Does the family perceive your absence?
- My daughter will soon be seven years old, parting is harder than before. We do not have enough of each other. So I try to organize the concerts so as not to miss home more than a week in a row. When possible, we leave all together - Lou and Gabriel. If tomorrow is the concert, I immediately go to the hotel to sleep. If there is a break - we all have dinner together with my entire team of musicians and managers in a good restaurant.
- Well, yes, rose petals ... If you’re a champion ...
- (Laughter.) This constitution I have this, I have nothing to do with it, so, I keep fit, given to me by God and parents. And I do not give up a glass of wine, Parma ham, homemade pasta or risotto. Husband swears, saying that I recovered because of it. Yes, I love to cook and more! And I choose the products in the market myself ...
- Can you name the best gift from someone in your life?
- (Thinks.) Life itself - a gift. Unbelievable. You get it at birth. Just like that, by chance - is it not wonderful? Meeting with Spielberg and recording the soundtrack for his film "Artificial Intelligence". It was so unusual - I held a casting on par with choristers and very famous singers. The opportunity to take part in charity events for unhealthy children, sing a song for them, Esmeralda in the Disney movie "The Hunchback of Notre Dame." And yet, wait! In Paris "Zenith" 7000 spectators sang along with me my song «Je T'aime» - can any diamonds compare with this?
Elena Ivanova, Brussels
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As usual, one can count on Lara for informative and creative interviews, especially those done outside of France.
In other news: Lara and Gabriel got into the Halloween mood together, as indicated by three pictures available from the Instagram page of Jean-Christoffer, at instagram.com/tonenena?modal=true, and, for just the pictures of Lara, from the Lara Fabian Czech site (as well as now many others) at:
www.facebook.com/laraczechpage/photos/pcb.694904777283166/694904533949857/?type=1&theater
As others have noted, Gabriel is a natural for the part [ ]. Curiously, Lara did not put them on her FB or Instagram sites. The 'Lara Fabian est ton autre' site put forward a picture from the Mademoiselle Zhivago film that would have done quite nicely in this regard as well, at: www.facebook.com/166959643357708/photos/a.168982793155393.43222.166959643357708/747333908653609/?type=1&theater
And then there is this, from the ‘Lara Fabian connection people’ site:
vk.com/lf_cp?z=photo-121236_347996698%2Falbum-121236_00%2Frev
In case you missed it, there is a nice fan youtube selection putting together Lara’s songs in Spanish – it can be found at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbATl645PPM
Also of note in the fan-made category is a nice atmospheric video of Lara singing Caruso in Helsinki, available at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sb_OHhL9n1s
Concerning future concerts, Lara left a video message for fans in Baku, associated with her upcoming concert there (on 11/23). It can be seen at:
Baku: www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1HjFMb0IpQ
The poster for the concert can be found at:
www.facebook.com/166959643357708/photos/a.168982793155393.43222.166959643357708/748780698508930/?type=1&theater
[These links were also not included on her FB site…].
When Lara was in Helsinki, Finland, she indicated that she was unhappy that many people had not been able to get tickets for her concert (as noted in the article at www.artbg.fi/lara_fabian,_helsinki,_finlandia-talo,_24042014,_klo_19:00/events_once). She then promised she would be back soon, and the poster shown on that page states that she will again be in Helsinki on April 24th, 2015, and in Tampere on the 26th. As Nicolas Boucaud on the MZ FB site commented, that is curious timing if her French album is due out in April, with all the associated promotion expected. Not to mention her ‘American tour’ that she indicated was scheduled for next spring. If wishes were fishes…
Given all these uncertainties it would seem best to focus on what seems likely to happen, and in less than two weeks Lara will be back in Russia. Perhaps we’ll hear more about the next album with Krutoi, a person who has the power to really make things happen in that country.
David
Of perhaps highest quality was the broadcast of Lara’s appearance on ‘part 2’ of the show ‘Les enfants du Top 50’. The high quality video of her solo of ‘Une femme avec une femme’ is available at:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=KjUPhkUiBvM
Another great performance/video, with Lara passionately expressing words that align with her belief system. One can see how impressed the audience and co-hosts were…again, if nothing else, this project must certainly raise her status in the eyes of the French public, for whom she would otherwise be relatively absent.
[Nevertheless, it is perhaps indicative of Lara’s current popularity in that country that this link is the only one available on youtube of the TV broadcast of Lara’s performance. Also, it came several days after numerous people had written in to Lara’s FB site asking how they could see it outside of France – a complaint that included people from Belgium as well! In contrast, the video of Lara with Yoann Freget of ‘On se retrouvera’ from the show the week before appeared almost instantly and from many different sources. Yoann of course was the winner of season 2 of the French competition series ‘The Voice’, and is apparently more up-front in the public’s mind.]
On the show itself, Lara repeated that her new French album will be out in April, but added the disclaimer ‘if all goes well’. Those who have followed the actual release dates of Lara’s albums are well aware of that caveat!
The phrase ‘relatively absent’ was used above because Lara had additional exposure to her French audience through the release of her duet with Michel Jonasz of ‘Parler d’amour’. This is a cut on the album “Sidaction-Kiss & Love” that pays homage to the 20th anniversary of ‘Sidaction’, the fight against AIDS. As explained by Pascal Obispo, "Kiss & Love" refers to the famous kiss from actress Clémentine Célarié of an HIV-positive patient to prove that it is not a risky practice. The album can be bought at (http://www.amazon.fr/Sidaction-Kiss-Love-Multi-Artistes/dp/B00NT2NF62/) among other places (not all of which will sell outside France). For those who haven’t heard it, Lara’s duet is available at:
www.larafabianbrasil.com.br/2014/10/ouca-musica-parler-damour-dueto-entre.html
It’s also available at vk.com/lf_cp; just scroll down to the ‘audio files’. [There are also audio files available there for the full concerts in Helsinki and Turku as wel]l.
Here’s a translation of an article from ‘Le Parisien’ discussing the album release:
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For the 20th anniversary of Sidaction, an association fighting against AIDS created and led by Line Renaud and Pierre Berge, Pascal Obispo succeeded in a ‘tour de force’ of bringing together 80 singers, comedians and entertainers for "Kiss & Love" and its incredible clip, and 42 others on the double album of reprises, due out November 3.
In this album, Jean-Jacques Goldman, so quiet the past ten years, retakes with Claire Keim "Ça," a little-known gem of Zazie. "I called Jean-Jacques and he immediately said yes", says Pascal Obispo, who has received the Grand Prix SACEM in the creator-performer category of French songs. "I offered him, as to the others, a list of 50 songs expected to move people the most. He wanted to sing Ça with Claire. He sang in Marseille, she in my studio. But that's not for me, it is the cause that brought together all these people."
Some of his guests are from the Enfoires. Zaz and Christophe Mae put a bit of Sting and reggae in the "Foule sentimentale" of Souchon, his longtime friends. Pagny and Bruel are found, a rare thing for "Un homme heureux" of Sheller, while Maurane and Christophe Willem join their great voices on "Fais-moi une place" of Julien Clerc.
Some unexpected duets are wonderful. Zaho and Yannick Noah emphasize the emotion of " Voilà, c’est fini " by Jean-Louis Aubert without being too strong, while Lara Fabian and Michel Jonasz do " Parler d’amour" in the footsteps of Art Mengo. In short, not another cover album, a great disc for a great cause.
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A video news report of the creation of the video, with Lara appearing at the 3 second mark, can be seen at: www.bfmtv.com/mediaplayer/video/kiss-and-love-obispo-mobilise-les-artistes-pour-le-sidaction-344598.html (although again she is not mentioned in the report). The video 'Kiss and Love' with French lyrics can be seen at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNcp-T5pNGI.
As many people have pointed out, Lara has sung with Michel Jonasz before in support of Sidaction, in 2006, available at:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcHds19I2Ac
My reaction to the current offering, as well as that one, was that the quality of their voices is too disparate for the duet to be successful, although it does grow on you after awhile. Lara sounds wonderful, at least.
A picture of the two of them can be seen at:www.facebook.com/164644456884508/photos/a.795699763778971.1073741826.164644456884508/978875918794687/?type=1&theater
There will be a TV broadcast of ‘An Evening of Sidaction’ (http://www.emissions-tv.com/emissions/57/la_soiree_du_sidaction) to be recorded November 16th and 17th. Lara is not listed as being there, and it is probably doubtful that she could make it as she will be in Moscow for the event with Krutoi on the 15th and 16th.
Of additional interest, Lara’s appearance on this album is listed as being with the permission of ‘Odacity’. That raises the obvious question of what exactly is her relationship to that company? On their website, Odacity is described as, “an independent music and entertainment company, which includes a Record Label (Odacity Records), audiovisual productions unit and Management of Artists. The company's activities in Europe (Brussels) and the USA (Los Angeles) cover Audiovisual productions, Management of Artists; publishing; production , exhibition, merchandising and other entertainment related productions, including TV, Film, and private events”. Is Lara an official part of their ‘roster’, like she was with Universal, or are they simply the distributors of her work, as Warner and Universal were for ‘Le Secret’? If they are now her ‘record company’, do they have a say as to what she releases, maybe part of the ‘if all goes well’ aspect for the coming French album? These are not the type of questions Lara or her people ever answer, so we’ll have to wait and see…
Additional ‘media’ offerings became available, now referring to Lara’s recent tour. From her time in the Czech Republic, first there was an interview with her (http://musicserver.cz/clanek/48531/lara-fabian-forum-karlin-praha-16-10-2014/). The article was made available by the ‘Lara Fabian Czech’ fanclub, and it was translated into English by ‘Mirka’ for the ‘Lara Fabian est ton autre’ FB site. It is copied here with just a few alterations…
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Reporter: Have you ever been in the Czech Republic?
Lara: Yes, a few times. When I had the opportunity to get to know Prague for the first time I found it a very inspiring and beautiful city. Then I was there in 2012 when I had a concert. I really loved to be here.
R: Concert's tickets were sold out very soon and you had to add one more concert. Were you surprised?
L: It certainly surprised me but it was a good opportunity to arrange one more concert. It's magical but it's always a bit of a surprise. That's why I'm doing this concert. It is such a nice gift.
R: You sing in English, French and in many others languages. Which one is dearest for you?
L: Every language is specific in something and that touches me. I enjoy singing in languages which I sing, but most in the tongue of my mother, who came from Italy. That's an especially touching one for me.
R: Last year you had health problems with ears and that was why you canceled concerts. This means that you came healthy to the Czech Republic?
L: Certainly, I return healthy to Czech Republic. I had a time for rest that was needed.
R: Your songs are well known here in our country, especially "Je suis malade" or "Je t´aime". Which song do you like most of your creation?
L: In French it is certainly the song "Pas sans toi". This is a song I wrote a long time ago. It's a song about love, which can be sung to the public.
R: Your husband is the magician Gabriel di Giorgio. Did he try some of his spells on you?
L: Yes and it really worked, I succumbed to his charm. I fell in love with him. I still remember our first meeting.
R: Would you say that you have a magical relationship?
L: Sure, but I will say nothing further about our relationship.
R: You are not only a singer but you are also a mother. Is it difficult to find a time for family and for work?
L: You know no matter what you are doing, when you are a mother, you must be a little superhero whether you are singer, teacher or baker. Whatever amount of work you have, you must do it.
R: Do you think that your daughter Lou will want to become a singer too?
L: I really do not know. I´m not really sure. We say "an apple does not fall far from the tree" but I have a feeling that it will not work with my daughter.
R: Do you sing with her?
L: I´m doing with her many different things, for example sing, dance...
R: Do you think the way that society sees homosexuality has changed?
L: I always wanted people to be tolerant but it is difficult to say whether the perception of people has changed. I still see that this has changed more in places that seem most advanced, intellectual,... So unfortunately, I think that artists should continue to sing the songs that support the tolerance. Even though it may be only a small step to tolerance. We have not won yet. It is important that people who love each other didn't have to hide.
R: Do you support the adoption of children by homosexual couples?
L: Yes. I don't have a problem with love, I do support that, and when you support something you can´t be against the family. It would not make any sense. You can not separate the one from the other. I personally perceive it so that love and family can´t be separated from each other. It is perfectly legal for me.
R: You're a singer, but sometimes the politics mixed with music. You had to cancel a concert in Uzbekistan. Are you sorry?
L: For me policy and music have nothing in common. What I know for sure is that when I go to another country, I go there to see their people. I'm not going there for politicians. And that´s why I cancelled the concert in Uzbekistan. It would be led by politicians and it is not right. And I want to sing for people. In any country that has allowed me to share with them about it.
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Then a review of the concert itself (http://musicserver.cz/clanek/48531/lara-fabian-forum-karlin-praha-16-10-2014/) by Markéta Bínová, thanks to the Lara Fabian Czech page. Here’s the translation:
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The second Czech date of Lara Fabian
A few years ago, it seemed almost impossible to us that the Belgian-Canadian Lara Fabian gives a concert. Then she came to the sold-out Smetana Hall of the Municipal House, and it was a matter of time before she came back to the Czech Republic. It was this year, when she sang in the concert hall of the Karlin Forum. And it was again a great experience.
When two years ago Lara Fabian sang at the Municipal House, she picked up a stone while walking as a promise to come back here again. And behold it worked. For her next tour, she could not have missed the Czech Republic. In addition, with the announcement of her concert, tickets for Karlin Forum began to sell well so it was necessary to add an additional date. Who would have expected? So especially after learning of the announcement of a concert for those of you who would be going there, and those of you just questioning who would not ...
Unlike the first concert with her, this time Lara had a slightly richer stage scene. Not that she had prepared a monster production, it is all about her music, but on stage were placed four heavy frames and in each of them sat one of the musicians. From the first notes, however, it was possible to see only their silhouettes for all frames were covered with a backlit curtain. However, the introductory notes contained bits and pieces of high quality, heavy caliber notes. The singer opened the concert with one of her biggest hits, "Je T'aime" and you can hardly imagine what response it aroused. During these two years, none of her talent has been lost, and I guarantee you that it was heard Thursday by the fans at the concert, such that neither of the parties on SuperStar and similar compititions ever sing like that. So much emotion, positions, crystal clear tones combined with the power of voice is unique.
The concert continued and an even more elaborate second song "J'y Crois Encore" was no different. It was only during the latter that the curtain fell and the images of the silhouettes were finally transformed into musicians. At the time of another song, piano, drums and guitar and bass were added that certainly benefited the sound. Although it is more for heavy music, in the case of the Lara Fabian show, it sounded rather nice, and much better accompanied by the voice of the singer who excelled. In addition, it allowed more dynamic things like "Make Me Yours Tonight" or "Mademoiselle Hyde" from the musical project "Mademoiselle Zhivago". It was a great distraction from the beautiful quieter songs with classical melodies.
The show was all a bit more varied than the first time. For example, among the usual French and English titles, some sounded more "Italian", not to mention songs like "Alfonsina y el mar", which all have enriched Spanish and Latin content. In addition to her own songs included in the program, Lara did "Angel" by Sarah McLachlan, on which she has slightly changed the rhythm, that was unusual on the one hand, but refreshing on the other.
When I mentioned musicians, each presented his instrumental art in addition to the work that has been mainly demonstrated in the shadow of the singer. Everyone got room for one solo, which was used mostly by percussionist Rony Iwryn. While I thought it was "too much", others were really enthusiastic about the improvised intermezzo of splashing water bongos, gurgling and bells. The case was also similar to the introduction of the bass guitar on "Yeliel (My Angel)", which was unnecessarily progressive and dissonant. On the other hand, on the song itself the whole quartet played in excellent spirits, until I felt the taste of all four instruments. It was one of those rare moments where the gentlemen were given more attention. Otherwise, the stage was overshadowed by the delicate and incredibly expressive lady.
There is no doubt that Lara Fabian, who this time came in an elegant black dress, had the whole audience perfectly in hand. Regardless of the number of foreigners in the audience and the number of Czechs, everything was successful, thanks to the excellent acoustics of the room, and her singing voice, uniting respectively. Although we heard her repeatedly, we simply could not get enough of the absolute certainty with which she would attack one tone after another, even in the most difficult transitions and the most difficult rhythmics, regardless of range. And it does not matter if it is just in the typically French pop, Latin, or perhaps a more revealing song. Even the words have a beautiful melody. The depth of her singing is so amazing and vibrant you feel it is hard to describe. The audience felt the same way, at least according to the tumultuous reaction at the end of the songs, but mainly due to the expression of a spontaneous moments of enthusiasm in their course.
Of that, among other things, when performing she acted as an etheral being who is passionately interested in her transcendent soul, and then during one song turned into a normal woman who was joking with you about constantly moving things around the stage, which apparently she does at home, and which gets her husband mad. She still has a strong relationship with her fans, and therefore gladly talked with them between songs, but also took flowers, gifts and so on. And one of the strongest moments of the concert was when she admitted how on her return to Prague she was even more impressed than when she came for the first time. Or, when seated at the piano, for the song ‘Pas sans toi’, she was grateful to those who are always there for her.
On the contrary, the strongest musical experience was the penultimate song "Je suis malade", which we know from Mary Rottrová as "To tak mám Rada." Lara Fabian’s version is far more than just singing and was one in which she declaimed the most. Thus with those stanzas, because the whole was such a force she sang without a microphone. No wonder then, that at the interpretation of the last note, the entire hall was on its feet and with endless applause asking for an encore. It came in the form of the classic "Adagio", this time sung in English, which is among the best pieces. Then she promised to come back soon and disappeared into the wings.
Lara Fabian and her second concert convinced that she is still the best contemporary pop singer in the world. Although related to the current pop, it can not be treated so literally, because the current pop seems a bit different, so it remains in a more classical approach. On the other hand, the age of the general audience was the most diverse that you can imagine, and everyone was very happy when they left nonetheless. They love her, regardless of the chosen song and literally devoured her every tone in all languages and she loved them in return. So: Au revoir Madame Lara and return again soon to the Czech Republic."
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Lara ought to put this review up on her wall, and any time she feels low, read through it again. It could not have been more laudatory.
Finally there was an interview before the tour started for the Russian weekly newspaper “Arguments and Facts”, for which ‘AIF Europa’ is a regional offshoot (http://www.europa-reporter.eu/exklusiv/) (thanks to ‘Lara Fabian Connecting People’ for the link). Here’s the (approximate) translation:
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Secrets of Lara Fabian
"What I want to share - you will find in my songs, but not in social networks" , - told Lara Fabian in an exclusive interview with " AiF.Evropa "
"Arguments and Facts" with love from Lara Fabian. "AiF.Evropa"
From 5 through October 10, 2014 Lara Fabian will perform before the German public. Munich, Berlin, Offenbach, Düsseldorf and Hanover - five cities, with which the singer has decided to start her tour in Europe.
- Lara, you played in prestigious venues in different countries, among them the New York Carnegie Hall, and the Parisian "Olympia" and the Kremlin Concert Hall in Moscow. And here in Germany you go to give concerts for the first time. Although it would seem, it's around the corner from Belgium, where you live ...
- My hero Paulo Coelho had to go around the world to meet his fate near his home. But for some reason he took this trip ... a Life tour - a very strange and unpredictable thing. It turned out that my first professional success despite having Italian mother and Belgian father, came ... in Canada! Then fate circled me well to different cities and countries, but the feeling of home, the roots, I was always there. As for Germany, I have participated in the German TV show Wetten Dass, and the audience seemed very open and emotional. I feel as if I open the house where things have grown. Like all the same, but something has changed, so we'll see how the trees became more. (Smiles.)
- Your latest album is called "Le Secret", that's the mystery hidden in it?
This is a symbolic name, of course. The secret is in each of us. Different. And in this album I wanted to emphasize that the spring - is inside. Happiness - is the work and effort, it is not a given. Love, suffering, death of a loved one - these feelings are familiar to everyone. How grinding it all is, living from day to day, to find joy and harmony - everyone has his own secret. About myself I can say that I am patient and stubborn, and I believe in randomness of patterns that happen to us.
Social Networks, Real Diaries
- For many years you wrote a personal diary. It was replaced by social networks?
- My diary I started as a very young girl. To write down all my feelings, emotions, feelings, fears, meetings and partings, in general, the points that I wanted to fix. Then it stopped, just a couple of years ago. (Giggles). This is how much I used up, it turns out? And why it was stopped, too, I do not know, probably, the stage stopped, moments passed into something else. It is possible that over time, when I'm more adult (laughs), I will write an autobiography.
Social networks - it is rather the maintenance of contact with the public, informing them of new songs and concerts in the first person, first hand. Manifestation of gratitude. But something personal, intimate cares of me and my family - this is not there and can not be. In this diary, I could write something in two or three hours in a row; a social network - it's news stuffing two lines, no more. All that I want to share with the public is through my songs, music and lyrics.
- You have a lot of fans who you call angels. But there is another audience - who criticizes you and your work, not choosing expressions ... How do you respond?
- There were many difficult moments in my life, and my fans support with their love and faith in me. So who are they then, if not angels? (Laughs.) And the criticism, I react like a normal person. And be hurt and upset and disappointed and annoyed ... especially when I see something completely unjust and evil. But I never responded to this kind of attacks. Well it was said I was too thin (thick); loud screaming, not singing; not "beautiful", as the younger sister of Cinderella - well, what now? People change, grow old, after all. Pierre Richard once said: "I'm going down the street, suddenly in front of me someone said, stunned:" Is that you, Pierre ?! "-" I do not know, not sure. " - "Something about you today is somehow not in the form of ..." "I didn’t comb my hair" - I answer and move on, leaving him with memories of me 30 years ago. " I am aware that the famous people are doomed to be stroked, not only be in furs, it is the flip side of the coin called "success."
Error with consequences
- To the same side of the coin it is true that the life of an artist is surrounded by rumors. That's about you saying that your husband is terribly jealous that you bought a house in Moscow and received Russian citizenship and would soon become a mother for the second time ...
- My husband - a favorite. House - here it is, look for a window that - really the Kremlin? (Leaping laughs.) Oh, my God, will come up as well ... I have the nationality of Belgium and Canada. I live in Brussels with husband Gabriel and daughter, Lou. A dog that's still there, Scilla, her eleven years, our miracle. Regarding pregnancy - on all the will of God ...
- But the fact that you have had serious health problems and doctors have forbidden you to speak - is that not true?
- This is terrible and stupid story that happened almost a year ago, when during the rehearsal, I was stunned with maximum decibels. Error of one of engineers, nearly led to the tragedy. I lost consciousness, but was still able to speak and then go to the public. Some time later, I realized that something was not right what was happening to me. The doctor diagnosed quickly and accurately. The forecasts were pessimistic that threatened hearing loss, and we were forced to suspend my tour, to avoid complications. Then, leaving the office of the professor, I looked up and said, "Look, it's just a mistake that guy, he is terribly upset. It was not written in your book, so give me a couple of months, I can handle. " Whether I was able to deal with him, or whether I was treated by very good doctors in Paris and Brussels, supported by my family, or all together - thank you from my heart to all for your understanding, patience and kindness!
Expensive diamonds
- You were recently in Istanbul and immediately - rise to the first position in the Turkish charts ...
- Thank you Mustafa Checheli - a wonderful singer and a man, together we recorded a duet "Make Me Yours Tonight". It is very popular in Turkey, and what I met there was just wonderful! Sea, sun, beach, Mediterranean cuisine, applauding audience - recreation, not work! (Laughs.) The women there are very beautiful: some wearing a hijab to the neck. I loved the variety. When it is voluntarily - what's the problem? My grandmother wore on her breast a large Catholic Cross - all of their own faith, their secrets, their views on life. By the way, perhaps, Mustafa will play with me, and in some cities in Germany - imagine a blend of lyrical Fabian and hot Turkish guy? (Laughs.)
- You sing in English, French, Italian, Spanish ...
- ... in German, Russian, Turkish. By the way, say, in Russia there was a very popular Brazilian TV series "Clone" - the soundtrack to it I sing in Portuguese. I easily get languages, but I speak freely the ones you have listed.
- Always popular artists have to be away on the road. Does the family perceive your absence?
- My daughter will soon be seven years old, parting is harder than before. We do not have enough of each other. So I try to organize the concerts so as not to miss home more than a week in a row. When possible, we leave all together - Lou and Gabriel. If tomorrow is the concert, I immediately go to the hotel to sleep. If there is a break - we all have dinner together with my entire team of musicians and managers in a good restaurant.
- Well, yes, rose petals ... If you’re a champion ...
- (Laughter.) This constitution I have this, I have nothing to do with it, so, I keep fit, given to me by God and parents. And I do not give up a glass of wine, Parma ham, homemade pasta or risotto. Husband swears, saying that I recovered because of it. Yes, I love to cook and more! And I choose the products in the market myself ...
- Can you name the best gift from someone in your life?
- (Thinks.) Life itself - a gift. Unbelievable. You get it at birth. Just like that, by chance - is it not wonderful? Meeting with Spielberg and recording the soundtrack for his film "Artificial Intelligence". It was so unusual - I held a casting on par with choristers and very famous singers. The opportunity to take part in charity events for unhealthy children, sing a song for them, Esmeralda in the Disney movie "The Hunchback of Notre Dame." And yet, wait! In Paris "Zenith" 7000 spectators sang along with me my song «Je T'aime» - can any diamonds compare with this?
Elena Ivanova, Brussels
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As usual, one can count on Lara for informative and creative interviews, especially those done outside of France.
In other news: Lara and Gabriel got into the Halloween mood together, as indicated by three pictures available from the Instagram page of Jean-Christoffer, at instagram.com/tonenena?modal=true, and, for just the pictures of Lara, from the Lara Fabian Czech site (as well as now many others) at:
www.facebook.com/laraczechpage/photos/pcb.694904777283166/694904533949857/?type=1&theater
As others have noted, Gabriel is a natural for the part [
]. Curiously, Lara did not put them on her FB or Instagram sites. The 'Lara Fabian est ton autre' site put forward a picture from the Mademoiselle Zhivago film that would have done quite nicely in this regard as well, at: www.facebook.com/166959643357708/photos/a.168982793155393.43222.166959643357708/747333908653609/?type=1&theaterAnd then there is this, from the ‘Lara Fabian connection people’ site:
vk.com/lf_cp?z=photo-121236_347996698%2Falbum-121236_00%2Frev
In case you missed it, there is a nice fan youtube selection putting together Lara’s songs in Spanish – it can be found at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbATl645PPM
Also of note in the fan-made category is a nice atmospheric video of Lara singing Caruso in Helsinki, available at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sb_OHhL9n1s
Concerning future concerts, Lara left a video message for fans in Baku, associated with her upcoming concert there (on 11/23). It can be seen at:
Baku: www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1HjFMb0IpQ
The poster for the concert can be found at:
www.facebook.com/166959643357708/photos/a.168982793155393.43222.166959643357708/748780698508930/?type=1&theater
[These links were also not included on her FB site…].
When Lara was in Helsinki, Finland, she indicated that she was unhappy that many people had not been able to get tickets for her concert (as noted in the article at www.artbg.fi/lara_fabian,_helsinki,_finlandia-talo,_24042014,_klo_19:00/events_once). She then promised she would be back soon, and the poster shown on that page states that she will again be in Helsinki on April 24th, 2015, and in Tampere on the 26th. As Nicolas Boucaud on the MZ FB site commented, that is curious timing if her French album is due out in April, with all the associated promotion expected. Not to mention her ‘American tour’ that she indicated was scheduled for next spring. If wishes were fishes…
Given all these uncertainties it would seem best to focus on what seems likely to happen, and in less than two weeks Lara will be back in Russia. Perhaps we’ll hear more about the next album with Krutoi, a person who has the power to really make things happen in that country.
David
