CEUX DU DEHORS

On their third album, Univers Zero went for a slightly more accessible approach. The music is still very intricate and heavily influenced by modern classical music, but the more prominent integration of rocking rhythms and melodious qualities makes this into a more open and brighter album.

Dense introduces the new UZ sound. The drums, pulsating bass and rhythmic piano take the lead on this dramatic composition. It has something of a Zeuhl flavor to it, but the horns and violins provide a melodic angle that makes it lighter in tone then Magma.

La Corne Du Bois is more experimental, especially the dissonant harmonies and the creepy organ in the second half provide for a dark and chilling atmosphere. Don't play this on your i-pod when walking dark alleys in Brussels after midnight. Also La Musique d'Erch Zahn takes a similar approach.

Bonjour Chez Vous is a typical UZ take on Stravisky. It's quite playful, but in a twisted sort of way. Combat starts with a threatening Kobaian battle that takes turns with quieter classic chamber rock parts. La Tête Du Corbeau provides a short melancholic interplay before the Magma-inspired disturbing insanity of Triomphe Des Mouches ends the album on a high note.

Ceux Du Dehors is a diverse and inspired UZ album that shows a mature band finding their own voice after two excellent Stravinsky tribute albums. A recommended starting point for UZ.