Where to even begin here? Uppsala is a
square-on bulls-eye for the Zeuhl genre... via a mutant early 1980s New
Wave lens. They would hardly be alone with the New Wave bit when one
considers Superfreego, Foehn, and Fiction-era Eskaton. But... no, it's
not like that either. Band leader Phillippe Cauvin sings in a strange
high pitched voice (not in Kobaian, but a crazy scat / French hybrid -
or onomatopoeic as the liner notes state), at times even evoking Devo of
all groups. There's a strain of complex jazz fusion, as well as early
80s Belew era King Crimson. Highly unique for sure, and if you can
tolerate those distinct early/mid 1980s tones, then Uppsala is going to
be an instant hit in your household. Even stranger is the 3 bonus tracks
on the Musea CD, where the band is playing live in 1995, and continuing
on as if not much has changed in 10 years. But now with early 70s
styled psychedelic guitar layered on top (recalling Cauvin's own past
with Absinthe) - something that would have added at least a half point
to the original studio recording. There's nothing else quite like
Uppsala. I think it's appeal is wide if considering Zeuhl, early 80s
Crimson, and late 70s fusion. Though dedicated fans of all 3 may be
scratching their head, trying to understand what the other genres are
doing to screw up their style. Yea, this is one to get for sure.
Personal collection
CD: 2001 Musea
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