PIONNIER 1969-1994

Released in the early 90's this album might appear a compilation of their historical tracks, but it turns out that this is more of a re-recording of their earlier tracks, so beware. Apparently this was a project organized by the Pionnier label (who released last year one historic Dionysos album in honour of the group's 35th anniversary), and

This re-recording session involved the three main protagonists of their classic period, Thibert, Clement and Mathieu, but they used a truckload of guest as well. This is exactly the type of semi-stinky albums I usually stay away from, but for years this was the only way to hear some Dionysos on CD. What's worse most of the reworks are shorter than the originals and (you guessed it!!) the instrumental interplay is the major victim, even if the group has better recording facilities and were better musicians. The selection process of tracks leaves to be desired as well as four from the debut but only one from their rare second (and from far proggiest) Le Prince Croule (and an itsy bitsy one too), three from their weaker 67§ reunion album, and two from their offshoot 78 project Mes Amis.

So Narcotique loses almost 4 minutes, but manages to suffer less than other tracks. I was not a big fan of La Colère in its original form, and the rework fails to convince of this version's raison d'être. L'Age Du Chlore gets an extra brass section, but it changes the track's feel from a Purple/Nice thing to a funky brass rock. Unfortunately the debut album's best track (the instrumental L'Age D'Or) loses half its length, and the straight blues rock of Suzie is a complete waste of time unless you arean unconditional fan of Thibert's voice.

Their second (and almost overlooked) album does not get much a treatment here as the short Prince Jardine also gets the brass section treatment, which ruins theoriginal spirit. Of minor interest is the previously unavailable S'Ul Yiab track written in 72 but getting the 94 treatment. Is it because I am unable to compare it with the original version, but I find this to be the best track of this album.

The eponymous album (76) is represented by two of the three best track, namely Osti'd Problème, which is almost equal (meaning very good) to the original version, the good rocky Pit Buick (the only one that retained its original length) and T'Attends Ton Train actually gains a few seconds. Overall I'd say that the 94-Dionysos was closer to their 76-version than others.

The English-sung Vancouver and instrumental Bouquet De Roses (dedicated to Duane Allman) are both from that album from 78, which I've never heard, so I can't tell you if they are bettered or not, but the Allman dedication is interesting and needless is it to tell you of which band it reminds you.

One of the few positive things about this "album" is that you finally get to hear their early works in good conditions, but that's about it, though!! Best avoided if you ask this casual fan,but I dare say less casuals could beg to differ on its status

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