JOUER

Some albums from the past deserved to have a CD edition, and this is one of them. Michel Normandeau participated on all Harmonium efforts, before pursuing a solo career. Unfortunately, when he made this change of direction, prog rock was starting to decline in popularity and mídia space. I'm not really a consistent admirer of Harmonium's works, but this work has really captivated me. Despite the fact that it features a handful of former members of the aforementioned band, during my review the considerable diferences between them will become noticeable.

The smooth and folk beginning, with the acoustic guitar, grows with the gentle inclusion of other instruments. The vocals, in French, are exquisite. In fact, this is the case throughout the entire album. Some changes of time signatures occurs, a swing on the bass, and some brief but inspired interventions on clarinet and flute complete this music.

On the next song, acoustic guitar becomes even more lyrical, and bass delivers great melodies. Along with the singing, now there are some vocalizations. An immersive guitar, on the symphonic vein, closes the track.

Rhythmic sections on the first half of the third track are a bit simple. When the guitar gets along, significant changes happens. The musical combinations become more inventive. And on the end, the drums improve a creative march, and caddence is more accelerated.

A magnificent classical piano is developed on the following track.

Clarinet and acoustic guitar make an incredible dialogue on the opening of side B. Suddenly they give place to the piano, this time with some jazzy executions. And after that there's this fantastic piano solo.

6th song gives its name to the album. The entrance has a very strong pop approach. I like it, because of its tasty swing, and once again vocals are strong and complex. They switch harmonies, more to its middle, but keeping one foot on pop-prog. Piano has some cozy rhythyms.

Next track is one of the greatest discovers I made, in recent years, on progressive rock. "L'air de Rien" is outstanding, marvelous. The long introduction on the piano could be easily credited to some of the best acoustic stuff from Rick Wakeman. The other instruments seem to ask the most respectful excuse, very carefully, in order to enter on the composition. When the vocals come along the apotheosis is complete. Spectacular bass, and all the rest grows in intensity. Note 100/100.

The last track is very short, mainly structured around the accordion. It has a bit of a circus mood, and also a melancholic atmosphere.

I enjoy the whole album, and to me ir deserves a 4.1 rating.