Eclat ~ France

Volume 3 (1997)

Eclat, from Marseilles, were one of many French progressive rock bands to have emerged in the 90s, only to be completely forgotten in modern times. Eclat reminds me most of Minimum Vital, especially in regards to the energetic electric guitar and Medieval themed undertone. The album is primarily instrumental, and the only vocal track 'La Madeleine', is also the album's only clear misstep. A fine album worthy of investigation. Eclat appears to still be active, though I haven't heard anything past their 2002 album, which seems to be the case globally.

Ownership: 1997 Kezko (CD). The booklet is a four panel foldout.

1997; 6/24/16 (review)

 

Le Cri de la Terre (2002)

---5/31/07

On Le Cri de la Terre, it seems the band has moved away from the Minimum Vital-like Volume 3, which is to say there is less of the Medieval here. But in its place is a more aggressive kickass style guitar rock, with some nice digital keyboards. Lead guitarist Alain Chiarazzo can play with the best of them. His style is very much from the French school, and the Paysson  comparison (Minimum Vital) continues on. The excellent Paul Whitehead painting rounds out the package.

---3/3/26

I didn't mention it above but track 4 is in the French Theatrical style of their first two albums when they were known as Eclat De Vers. The album is borderline fusion versus traditional progressive rock. This is especially notable on the ECMish 'Mr. Z' and 'Aurore Boreale'. Overall, the expressive guitar of Chiarazzo wins the day.

Ownership: 2002 Musea (CD). Poster booklet with recording details and lyrics. Acquired in 2007.

5/31/07 (review); 1/29/13; 3/3/26 (update)

1/29/13 (new entry)