CYCLE I

Never before have I come across a French progressive album I feel comfortable listening to in the morning, right after I roll out of bed and begin the day's activities. Cycle I is the first.

I love music all times of dayl, but morning can be my favorite time to listen. The album I pick can set the tone for the rest of the day - usually I try to pick something less heavy, like background music. Thus far, Celeste's 1976 eponymous debut and Gong's much-maligned "Rubber Riff" are the only progressive albums in my morning list of favorites. If you consider John Renbourn progressive, his "The Guitar of John Renbourn" is at the top of this list.

If you're looking for a dynamic, heavy workout, this probably isn't the album for you, as noted by the reviews for the record. Small segments have quick tempo with furious exchange - the translation "From Darkness to Consciousness" reveals the purpose of the album, and the soundscapes are dark but not ominous, serious but not sinister. Light female voice adds colors to the songs as well as sax.

A classic in my collection, but I can see how other prog fans don't care for the sound.