Jean-Luc Ponty - Fables 12" Vinyl LP Album

- Promo Copy

"Fables" is the 1985 studio album by the French Jazz Fusion musician Jean-Luc Ponty. This web-page has hi-res photos of the album covers, record label and a detailed description.

 

album front cover of Jean-Luc Ponty - Fables Promo Copy

Jean-Luc Ponty's "Fables": A Fusion Fable in the Midst of the 80s
Album Description:

Emerging in 1985, "Fables" by Jean-Luc Ponty marked a notable chapter in the French violinist's expansive career. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant and commercially-driven 1980s music scene, this album served as a continuation of Ponty's exploration of jazz fusion while incorporating elements that resonated with the contemporary soundscape.

Musical Exploration

"Fables" showcases a shift in Ponty's musical direction, leaning towards a more accessible and radio-friendly sound compared to his earlier, more experimental works. The album features a blend of instrumental and vocal tracks, with appearances by vocalists such as Randy Jackson and Casey Young. While Ponty's signature electric violin remains a prominent force, the incorporation of synthesizers and drum machines adds a distinctly 80s flavor to the music.

Genre Fusion

The album further solidifies Ponty's standing within the jazz fusion genre, yet it also ventures into the realm of pop-fusion. This blending of genres is evident in tracks like "In Spiritual Love" and "Computer Incantations," where jazz improvisation meets catchy melodies and electronic textures. While this approach expanded Ponty's audience, it also sparked debates among purists who questioned the authenticity of this new direction.

Production and Recording

"Fables" was recorded across various studios, including La Tour D'Ivoir (Ivory Tower) in France, Bill Schnee Studio, Cherokee Recording Studios, Ocean Way Recording, and the Village Recorder. This diverse range of locations reflects the global nature of the music industry at the time, as well as Ponty's desire to experiment with different recording environments. The production team included seasoned professionals like Bill Schnee and Jeffrey Weber, ensuring a high-quality sonic experience.

Historical Context and Controversies

Released during a time of heightened commercialism in the music industry, "Fables" faced scrutiny from some critics who felt that Ponty had compromised his artistic integrity in pursuit of mainstream appeal. However, the album also found a new audience among listeners who appreciated its fusion of jazz and pop sensibilities. This period marked a turning point in Ponty's career, as he navigated the changing landscape of the music industry while staying true to his musical roots.

Music Genre:

Progressive French Violin Rock

Album  Production information:

Recorded at La Tour D'Ivoir (Ivory Tower) , Bill Schnee Studio, Cherokee Recording Studios, Ocean Way Recording, and the Village Recorder.

Sound and Recording engineer Peter R. Kelsey, Dan Garcia, Clif Jones, David Eaton, David Ahlert

Mastered by Bernie Grundman at Bernie Grundman Mastering, Los Angeles,

Bernie Grundman is a renowned Mastering Engineer hailing from Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. With an illustrious career spanning several decades, he has achieved remarkable success in the music industry. Born with an innate passion for music and a keen ear for detail, Grundman has left an indelible mark on the field of audio mastering.

  Read more...

Grundman's journey into the world of music began in the early 1980s when he established his own mastering studio in Hollywood, California. It was during this time that he cemented his reputation as a go-to engineer for heavy metal albums. From 1982 to 1990, Grundman lent his expertise to numerous heavy metal projects, skillfully mastering dozens of albums that defined the genre's sound during that era.

His work with heavy metal artists showcased his ability to capture the raw energy and power of the music, while maintaining clarity and fidelity. Grundman's mastering techniques brought out the full sonic potential of each album, elevating them to new heights and contributing to their commercial success.

As his talent became recognized, Bernie Grundman had the opportunity to collaborate with a multitude of renowned musicians across various genres. His mastering prowess was sought after by a diverse range of artists, including rock, pop, jazz, and classical musicians. Through his meticulous attention to detail and technical expertise, he added the final polish to their recordings, enhancing the overall listening experience for fans around the world.

Grundman's discography boasts an impressive list of hit albums, with his name appearing in the credits of numerous iconic releases. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping the sound of some of the most influential records of our time. From acclaimed bands to chart-topping solo artists, Grundman's work has left an indelible impact on the music industry.

Bernie Grundman's mastering studio has become synonymous with excellence and has earned a reputation as one of the best facilities in the industry. Musicians and record labels alike recognize the exceptional quality and meticulous attention to detail that Grundman and his team bring to every project. His dedication to achieving sonic perfection and his commitment to maintaining the artistic vision of the artists he works with have made him highly respected among his peers.

Throughout his career, Bernie Grundman has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the music industry. He is the recipient of several Grammy Awards, recognizing his exceptional skills as a mastering engineer. These accolades further solidify his status as a true pioneer in the field and underscore his unwavering commitment to excellence.

Beyond his technical prowess, Grundman's success can be attributed to his genuine love for music and his unwavering passion for his craft. His dedication to his work has allowed him to forge lasting relationships with artists, fostering an environment of trust and collaboration in the studio.

As a master of his trade, Bernie Grundman continues to inspire and influence aspiring engineers and musicians worldwide. His legacy is one of innovation, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of sonic perfection. Today, his name remains synonymous with exceptional audio quality, and his contributions to the music industry will continue to resonate for generations to come.

California during July and August 1985

Album cover concept Claudia Ponty

Claudia Ponty is the wife of Jean-Luc Ponty. She has been involved in various aspects of his career, including album cover concept design, as seen in some of his releases. While not a musician herself, her creative contributions have played a role in shaping the visual identity of Jean-Luc Ponty's music.

Photography by Jonathan Exley

Produced by Jean Luc Ponty for JLP Productions Ltd

Record Label Information:

Atlantic 781 276 (781276)

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Gramophone Record 

Year & Country:

1985 Made in Germany

Album cover photos of : Jean-Luc Ponty - Fables

Photo of Back Cover 

Large Hires Photo of Jean-Luc Ponty - Fables Promo Copy

Large Hires Photo

Large Hires Photo



Track Listing of: Jean-Luc Ponty - Fables

The Song/tracks on "Jean-Luc Ponty - Fables" are:

 
    Side One:
  • Infinite Pursuit
  • Elephants in Love
  • Radioactive Legacy
 
    Side Two:
  • Cats Tales
  • Perputual Rondo
  • In The Kingdom of Peace
  • Plastic Idols