CONCERT 1992, DOUARNENEZ:

This is indeed a splendid Magma recording. Probably not essential, as it dispenses with certain elements which might attract many people to Magma's music (this is just what the title suggests - the voices of Magma in all their unadorned glory).

If you are already a Magma fan, then this album may well be an essential listen. It certainly proves one thing - there is much more to Christian Vander than bombastic, virtuoso drumming and idiosyncratic vocalizing. The man is quite the composer, and what better way to showcase that than by bringing the group vocals to the fore with nothing more than piano accompaniment (OK, there is more than just piano - I'll get to that next).

Along with the brilliant piano accompaniment, there are Fender Rhodes (thank goodness they brought a real one out for this!), Yamaha DX7 or some variant thereof (there is no mistaking that sound!), Bass, and Vander's (very occasional) drumming. In fact, the only time I remember hearing any drums or percussion is at the end of Wurdah Itah - which closes the show.

This is a beautifully recorded concert, and a rare chance to hear Magma Unplugged as it were...

Bottom Line: If you already like Magma, get this record if you can find it. If you've never really listened to much Magma, while this is certainly a nice record, this is not the place to start. I recommend: KOBAIA (the first album) if you're more of a jazz/rock fan (certainly if you enjoyed Soft Machine's Third). M.D.K. if you're brave and you are ready to hear the full onslaught of what makes Zeuhl music so unique. ATTAHK if you'd like to start somewhere more...er...accessible - that is, more song-oriented and more grooves that you can dance to! If that's your kind of thing.