SERGE GAINSBOURG

Review: 1977's Madame Claude is perhaps not a film that is particularly well-known in the UK, even if it was directed by Just Jaeckin, the creator of the infamous Emmanuelle series of "soft porn" classics. In some ways it was as sleazy as you'd expect - the titular character was an infamous Parisian brothel-keeper - with Serge Gainsbourg's accompanying soundtrack, reissued here on vinyl for the first time in many years, only enhancing the film's scuzzy, sexually charged feel. Musically it saw Gainsbourg in full on over-the-top disco-funk mode, complete with his usual saccharine strings and the odd breathy vocal from his muse Jane Birkin.

Review: This rather tidy, limited-edition "45" offers up two previously unheard instrumental edits of stone cold classics from the bulging back catalogue of Chanson hero and sleazy but chic singer Serge Gainsbourg. Side A boasts a superb revision of "Melody Nelson", a sweeping, string-drenched affair underpinned by sweaty drumming that arguably benefits from the removal of Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin's vocals. Over on side B you'll find an equally evocative version of Beck favourite "Cargo Culte". Stripped of the original lead vocals, the track sounds like a lo-fi art-rock instrumental smothered in ghostly choral vocals and creepy, foreboding musical flourishes. Top stuff!

Review: Serge Gainsbourg and Jean-Pierre Sabar composed the soundtrack for Goodbye Emmanuelle (also known as Emmanuelle 3) in 1977. The movie was the peak of erotic softcore film making and the music that goes with it is not far behind in terms of steaminess. Of course, it's all a little tune in cheek - you wouldn't actually want to put the son to woo your partner unless you wanted them to break out in giggles but is sure is a fun listen. The gentle beats, tender and sibilant vocal whispers, the lush keys, they all make for a sultry soundtrack with sojourns into Latin, soul and funk.