SYMPTOME - DEI

Under the name of Yecta Plus Band begun the journey of multi-instrumentalist Didier Le Gallic in 1971 in England, releasing a single with no success.Returning to France he formed Flamen Dialis in 1976 with L. Le Clech and B.B. L'Helgouach on vocals and T. Tanguy on piano.This quartet released the single ''Decouverte'' in 1978, recorded at Iris Studios, followed by the full-length album ''Symptome Dei'' in 1979.This time the line-up was expanded, featuring also Y.H. Le Gallic on keyboards/vocals, A. Ernouf on flutes/vocals, M. Le Saout on guitar and J.J. Crenn on vocals.Both releases were private pressings on the band's F.L.V.M. label.

The music of Flamen Dialis was a trippy and cosmic Experimental/Prog Rock, based on the principles of Electronic Music but having also strong Folk references.The most notable aspect of their music was the dominant use of Mellotron next to the analog synthesizers, producing acid soundscapes with somewhat abstract patterns and repetitive textures, which seem to aim on creating haunting and deeply experimental images.Moreover their music were highly strengthened by the presence of acoustic guitars and traditional flutes, blending the spacey movements of the synths with the nostalgic sound of the archaic wind sections.Despite most of the members are credited also as singers, the only vocals appearing on this album are some sporadic narrations and a pair of dark choir parts, somewhat close to Gregorian chants.Thus the listening experience is more based on atmosphere and the music overall is quite loose with a free feeling and little structure.Towards the closing tracks ''Symptome dei'' becomes more ethereal with stronger Mellotron washes and dreamier use of synthesizers.

The MIO Records CD reissue features also the two tracks of Flamen Dialis' sole single.''Decouvert'' has a strong ENNIO MORRICONE vibe mixed with TANGERINE DREAM waves through the use of electric guitars, Mellotron and synths, while ''Autre Chose'' is closer to MIKE OLDFIELD with a light symphonic nature surrounding the sharp analog synths and the powerful Mellotron themes.

''Symptome Dei'' is not every music fan's dream, moreover it isn't an every hour listening.Mostly experimental Electronic Prog with a tendency towards abstract, haunting soundscapes, it will propably please only the fans of the style.The MIO Records reissue is recommended, as both the bonus tracks sound stronger than any piece of the normal LP issue...2.5 stars.