Ludivine Issambourg, Above the Laws Review

by Icrom Bigrad

Above the Laws is a vibrant and adventurous record that melds Ludivine Issambourg’s masterful flute work with a full, modern jazz-funk ensemble. Paying homage to legends like Hubert Laws, Gil Scott-Heron, and Bobbi Humphrey, Ludivine revisits classic grooves that she adorns with her dynamic flute, a prominent brass section, and collaborations with top-tier musicians. The album’s production – featuring contributions from Eric Legnini, Michael Lecoq, Laurent de Wilde, and others – gives it a rich, layered sound that is rich in its sonic appeal.

Kicking off the album, “The Bear,” sets an upbeat, celebratory tone. Eric Legnini’s playful Fender Rhodes lines give the song a moving energy. Ludivine’s elegant flute melodies also have a clear direction and groove, establishing a foundation that is warm and rhythmically engaging. The track’s buoyant energy suggests a call to adventure, inviting listeners into the expansive soundscape that follows.

The collaboration with renowned trombonist Nils Landgren infuses “New Morning” with a smooth, uplifting vibe. The interplay between the rich brass tones and Issambourg’s agile flute creates a layered texture reminiscent of early jazz-funk classics, evoking feelings of optimism and renewal.

With a title that hints at its punchy attitude, “Kickin’ Your Ass” delivers a burst of energetic funk. The track’s driving rhythm and compositional accents push the energy forward, while Ludivine’s playful improvisations over bold grooves create a sense of melodic storytelling.

“Manoir” offers a contrasting mood with a more reflective and mysterious mood. Its spacious arrangement, use of synths, and subtle shifts in harmonic colors evoke the feel of exploring a grand old estate, where every corner holds a secret. The gentle interplay between romantic flute lines and ambient textures gives this track an intimate and alluring quality.

“Angel Dust” is a reimagining of a Gil Scott-Heron classic. Featuring soulful vocals by Brian Jackson alongside Wolfgang Valbrun’s supportive textures. Ludivine’s percussive playing on the flute is outstanding. Its reinterpretation retains the original’s soul while injecting fresh funk and jazz elements, demonstrating Ludivine’s respect for legacy and her innovative spirit.

“Hop Scotch” is as playful as its title suggests. The collaboration with Laurent de Wilde brings a bouncy, rhythmic dialogue between the flute and Fender Rhodes. The track’s lively intervallic melody and its rhythmic twists evoke an infectious and joyful setting. Ludivine’s vocalizations and humming add to her flute expressions.

Turning up the heat, “Fever” channels an intense, almost hypnotic energy of funk. Céline Bonacina’s sultry saxophone lines introduce an Afrobeat detour that complements Ludivine’s flowing flute lines. The track is layered with a simmering guitar strumming groove and buzzing horn harmonies that make the listener feel the palpable heat of a late-night urban jazz club.

With a laid-back soul-funk groove, “Heartbeats” creates a sonic space for Ludivine’s communicative flute playing. A relaxed yet steady bass line and soulful backbeat drums underpin the feel. The form has a series of gentle phrases that build in kinetic energy. Ludivine’s flute solo features her expressive rhythmic feel and understanding of building a story through improvisation. Also, notice how you can hear Ludivine’s breaths in the music; it’s a lovely production choice.

“Lenox” keeps things moving with its cool groove and refined riff-based melody. The track’s crisp execution and understated elegance reflect a nod to urban sophistication—a modern jazz-funk statement that is rhythmically engaging and musically stimulating.

“If You Knew” (ft. Chassol) adds an element of mystery and subtle experimentation. The collaboration with Chassol introduces delicate electronic textures and unexpected keyboard flourishes that complement the organic sounds of flute and live percussion. Closing the album, “Night Watch” has a nocturnal aura over the record. Eric Legnini’s touch on the Fender Rhodes guides the listener through a soundscape that is at once fetching and glowing with latent energy. The track’s moody ambiance serves as a fitting coda to an album that traverses a full spectrum of emotions and sonic textures.

Above the Laws is a cohesive journey that marries Ludivine Issambourg’s musical influences with her bold creative palette by integrating modern jazz sensibilities with robust funk grooves. Each track contributes its own color—from the playful dynamism of “Kickin’ Your Ass” to the allure of “Night Watch” the album is as intellectually engaging as it is irresistibly groove-driven. For jazz-funk fans, Above the Laws offers a deeply satisfying, immersive experience.