EIDER STELLAIRE I

A unique Zeuhl album which combines classic jazz chops, a fine command of Zeuhlish rhythms and compositional abilities on a par with the likes of their main inspiration Magma, but also a hefty chamber rock influence by way of Univers Zero, the guitar soloing of Jean Clude Delachat in particular reminding me of elements of Univers Zero's first three albums. It's a tricky one to review, particularly since there aren't many fusion-RIO-zeuhl mashup groups out there, though on balance I think the Magma influence shines through most clearly. In this, they compare favourably to peers such as Eskaton, and if anything bring a bit of originality to the table whilst still accomplishing their main mission of paying tribute to the masters of Kobaia.