Laurent de Kiev
Biography
Laurent de Kiev is the artistic project of French-American musician, composer, and producer Laurent Cleenewerck de Kiev, dedicated to bringing classic French poetry to life through original music.
Concept & Vision
Often described as a “face-forward” project, Laurent de Kiev puts the beauty of French literary heritage at the center. It features carefully selected classic French poems (primarily from the 19th century) set to original melodies and arrangements. The goal is to make these timeless texts accessible and emotionally resonant for modern listeners by transforming them into songs — preserving the poetry’s depth and beauty while adding musical emotion, atmosphere, and melody.
This project stands apart from Laurent’s other musical endeavors (The Cure Is Us, The Faith and Doubt Project, Paris Has Fallen, The Lost Domain) by its strong literary focus and respectful, elegant approach to French cultural classics.
Musical Style
The music blends acoustic, singer-songwriter, and atmospheric pop/rock elements with a strong emphasis on vocal clarity so that the poetry remains fully intelligible. Some tracks feature intimate piano or guitar-led arrangements, while others incorporate richer production to heighten the emotional impact of the verses.
Releases
- De Musset à Sardou (2021) — The debut album, featuring seven tracks that set poems by Alfred de Musset, Paul Verlaine, and others to music. It explores themes of memory, love, faith, and longing.
- De Verlaine à Rimbaud (2023/2024) — The follow-up album with nine tracks, expanding into works by Paul Verlaine, Arthur Rimbaud, and related poets. This release is widely praised for its evocative settings of 19th-century French poetry.
Examples of Poems Covered
Notable poems brought to life as songs include:
- “Demain, dès l’aube…” by Victor Hugo — a deeply moving piece about love and loss.
- “Chanson d’Automne” by Paul Verlaine — capturing autumnal melancholy and nostalgia.
- Works by Alfred de Musset (such as “Je me souviens” and “Sans Dieu”).
- Selected poems by Arthur Rimbaud and others from the Romantic and Symbolist traditions.
These adaptations highlight Laurent’s commitment to honoring the original texts while creating music that feels both contemporary and timeless.
Overall Vision
Laurent de Kiev serves as a bridge between literature and music, celebrating the richness of French poetic tradition. It reflects Laurent Cleenewerck de Kiev’s lifelong passion for French language, culture, and poetry, offering listeners an intimate and artistic way to experience these masterpieces. Whether you’re a lover of French literature or simply appreciate thoughtful, melodic songwriting, this project invites you to rediscover the power of the written word through music.
