"Though We Have Only Love": Larry Beckett performs a vivid ode on this sprawling album.

Poetry and songwriting, oftentimes, are two sides of the same coin. The art of conveying deep, heart-rending sentiments in a song is nothing short of poetic; this forms the very crux of Larry Beckett's Though We Have Only Love- The Songs of Jacques Brel. The well-reputed poet devotedly took up a visionary and massive undertaking, one of revamping the chansons penned by the Belgian icon Jacques Brel into modernistic, yet timeless music. 

A distinguished personage in contemporary American poetry, Larry Beckett has received a warm reception for his songwriting endeavors. The wordsmith came into the limelight working together with Tim Buckley on "Song to the Siren,” which ultimately achieved evergreen status as several artists released their rendition of the original, particularly Mortal Coil in the 80s. Lately, Larry has published an extended collection of his poems on the "American Cycle" after decades of commitment. For his persistent and creative qualities, the Californian writer has been admired by diverse stalwarts in the realms of poetry and music, ranging from poet laureates like William Meredith and Charles Wright and musicians such as Peter Buck (guitarist for R.E.M.)

It all started with a tome of Jacques Brel's chansons. Larry found the penmanship of the late actor and songster fascinating, and set out on the task of faithfully translating them (as Beckett stated later: "I wanted to capture both the poetry and passion....aligned with the original French version.) Originally, these couldn't be turned into musical records due to technological constraints— a monumental project that Larry decided to oversee, enlisting the help of other talented colleagues—notably Stuart Anthony, who collaborated as a vocalist and guitarist.

Considering the significant heritage, the album leaves no stone unturned. Lasting over fourteen tracks, the compositions freely range between styles. As such, mellow, light ballads co-exist along resonant alt-rock tunes ("Tenderness").

"Litany of a Return" acts as a vibrant opener— wiry, thrumming guitars and marching percussions fortify the possessive rendition, claiming an existential ownership on everything (wrath, ecstasy, gold), tangible and otherwise. The lustrous "Song of the Old Lovers" overflows with unadulterated love: a gentle voice croons of desire and love over smooth, orchestrated soft rock. Heartfelt sorrow is voiced on "The Dove"— lamenting about the fatal aftermath of war.

Picturesque and heartwarming, "I Love You" has gleaming melodies accompanying a romantic recital. Aforementioned "Tenderness" acquires a faster tempo due to twanging guitars and rhythmic backbeat, vocals ruminating solemnly about seeking kindness. "Juliet" is dewy-eyed, reminiscing fondly of a long-lost soulmate, softly plucked guitars in tow, whilst "Madeleine" remains resolute in yearning for love despite being unreciprocated. Upon the hour mark and closing on its departure, the LP unveils the titular song: a shimmering, brisk 80s alt-rock inspired ballad, reaching a memorable and sentimental crescendo.

Stream Though We Have Only Love- The Songs of Jacques Brel on Spotify, and stay tuned with Larry Beckett on his website and Instagram.