ERSATZ

Another masterpiece from french modern prog scene. Along with TAAL these musicians show the direction progressive music is going to develop in future. Again mixture of musical genres - symphonic progressive art rock with strong classical influences with jazzy and avantgardish moments. As album takes its course, moods are varying between dark and disturbing to comparatively light relaxing moments. "Ersatz" is mostly instrumental - only one track (La Blonde) is with lyrics and same is very ironical and philosofical piece of poetry about the joy of smoking. Lyrics are in french, and my french leaves much to be desired, but I guess "La Blonde" is a lovey-dovey name for a cigarette? Orchestral arrangements are of highest quality. Musicians themselves are all multi-instrumentalists - each of them is playing various instruments. This album is dedicated to the memory of their late drummer Didier Pegeron. Tracks 8 and 9 (bonus tracks) are composed and recorded by Didier Pegeron himslef. I heard that this album is going to be their last as they to put their carrer to an end, which would be a great pity, but this album will always remain a golden page in annals of progressive music.