Named after his controversial anti-war protest song, released during the The Battle of Dien Bien Phu,
Le Deserteur is a best-of collection from the multi-talented poet, actor, and singer
Boris Vian. Released in 2006, this 17-track collection showcases the politically conscious and satirical songs which made him a hugely influential figure on the '40s and '50s French avant-garde scene. Alongside the title track, which has been covered by countless artists including
Joan Baez, there are songs influenced by rock & roll (his original version of
Magali Noel's "Fais-Moi Mal Johnny")
Java ("La Java des Bombes Atomiques"), and French chansons ("Les Joyeux Bouchers").