Album: M M

Introduction
"M M" is a 1973 album by French vocalist Mireille Mathieu. Born in 1946, Mathieu started her career in the 1960s and rapidly rose to fame with her special voice and emotional performances. Referred to as the "little sparrow" because of her diminutive stature and effective vocals, Mathieu has ended up being an icon in France and around the world. The 1973 album "M M" is among her most popular records, with a mix of ballads, chanson, and pop tunes that display her remarkable range and capability.

Production and Background
"M M" was produced by Leo Missir and launched in August 1973 under the label Barclay. It contains 12 tracks, varying from up-tempo pop tunes to slow ballads, all sung in French. Mathieu's fragile yet strong voice is perfectly fit for the broad selection of emotions, stories, and sensations present in the album. The styles of love, loss, and yearning are common threads throughout the record, making it a compelling and timeless listen.

Most of the tunes on "M M" were composed or co-written by widely known French authors and lyricists, including Michel Jourdan, Eddy Marnay, and the legendary Charles Aznavour. This cooperation between some of the most significant names in French music at the time produced an album that is a real example of classic French chanson.

Track Listing and Highlights
The album starts with the energetic and spirited track "Monsieur l'amour", a danceable tune in which Mathieu playfully sings about the lots of different forms love can take. This is followed by "Les jours heureux", a romantic ballad with a melancholy undertone. The album continues with a mix of ballads and up-tempo songs, showing Mathieu's ability to move seamlessly in between various musical styles.

Some standout tracks on the album include "Nous avons toujours vécu au château", a haunting tune about a love affair gone wrong, and "Les yeux fermés", a melodramatic ballad about a man who can not see his fan's true sensations.

The album closes with the powerful "Quand on n'a que l'amour", a cover of the Jacques Brel classic. Mathieu puts her own spin on the song, highlighting both her vocal variety and her ability to communicate strong emotion. This final track leaves a lasting impression on the listener, reinforcing Mathieu's status as a real musical icon.

Reception and Legacy
"M M" was popular by both critics and fans alike, further solidifying Mireille Mathieu's status as a cherished and respected chanteuse. The album showcases Mathieu's development as an artist, displaying her maturity in both her voice and psychological depth. The record's success likewise helped to raise her global profile, building on her currently remarkable following.

Today, "M M" remains a timeless example of French chanson, showcasing the talents of one of the country's most cherished vocalists. The album is a stunning representation of Mireille Mathieu's skill and her position as a leading figure in the French music industry. Even after nearly 5 decades because its release, "M M" continues to resonate with fans and stays a cherished staple in Mireille Mathieu's comprehensive discography.