FORCE MAJEURE

TD sent me to heaven with their seventies production. Especially between '74 and '77. If you would put ''Cyclone'' between brackets, all of their albums ranged from good to excellent.

This ''Force Majeure'' is some sort of going back to the roots (no vocals) but at the same time it prolongs the new direction introduced with the prior and controversial album. The title and epic track is damned good but it requires some open-minding for old TD fans as I am. The trippy atmosphere is not the only one that belongs here (even if quite obvious).

There are quite hectic electronic beats as well (but not too long) which conveys a special feel to the track. Extremely atmospheric guitar, melodic keys and superb spacey parts are just gorgeous moments of great music.

The second piece sounds almost as Floydean (WYWH period). ''Welcome To The Machine'' is not far from here? But there is no harm done, this track also has its own merit. One just need to be acquainted to hear these sort of drumming during a TD track. Once you have made the step, it is all enjoyment. ''Force Majeure'' is actually a pretty good album. It can't be compared to some of their jewels like ''Rubycon'' but the quality level is still pretty high. The closing track ''Thru Metamorphic Rocks'' is quite a ride as well. Much more rhythm in here than in almost all their previous work combined.

Only a few difficult moments are holding me to be 100% positive, but still: the overall feeling is very favourable. I would have appreciated a more spacey manoeuvre though but the band has evolved to other (atmo) spheres.

I have reviewed the whole TD discography from the seventies with an immense pleasure. The eighties will be full of soundtracks releases, some good live albums and some other studio ones. I still don't know if I'll have the courage to review thirty albums more and cover their next decade.

Thanks a lot to Edgar who was the soul and spirit since day one. This band has been a genuine part of my teens and I always listen to their music with quite an enthusiasm, respect and admiration.

Four stars for ''Force Majeure''.