Artcane ~ France

Artcane (1977)

Artcane's sole album is generally regarded as nothing more than a King Crimson meets Pink Floyd ripoff, and as such is not worth pursuing. Of course students of the genre know there was far more happening in the late 70s French music landscape than mere plagiarism. The album is primarily instrumental, built on complex meters, and utilizes spacey textures. And well, if that doesn't ring a bell or two eh? For starters, Artcane certainly lent an ear to Pulsar's first two albums. But anyone familiar with Metabolisme, Terpandre, and Carpe Diem will also recognize the familiar pattern laid out here. And Artcane basically crafted the blueprint for future intrepid travelers like Nebelnest, Taal, and Priam.

The Musea CD features one live lengthy 15+ minute "medley" track - recorded in 1976 and mostly features raw versions of what was to appear on the album proper. One vocal track is unique ('Elegie'). Definitely a nice addition, though not essential. Pity about the lack of history, photos, and other goodies though. Better than nothing for CD only collectors of course, but Musea aren't the same archivists as they once were when Frances Grosse was still with them.

Ownership: 1977 Philips (LP). Gatefold. Acquired in 1992.

1992; 1996; 9/26/17 (review / new entry); 11/2/19 (update); 6/5/26