*Comes in a CD-sized papersleeve album replica (gatefold), with obi-strip and insert of notes mostly in Japanese..2024 stock* On "Armes & Cycles," his last album of the wild seventies before a long hiatus, Albert Marcoeur remains meticulous in detail. He strikes a perfect balance between the exuberance of his debut and the lyrical redundancy of his second album. While still maintaining the song format, instrumental parts, especially those by guitarist François Ovide, are highlighted. The album sounds more rock and transcends the French music scene, supported by Fred Frith and attracting Lars Hollmer, with Denis Brély eventually joining Von Zamla.
The underlying madness is evident, but there's a clear maturation in writing and a search for harmony or disharmony, as seen in "Emploi du Temps," "Linge Sale," and "Ampoule Grillée." The seamless transitions between tracks create an exhilarating dynamic, enhanced by a musical program inspired by new music, exemplified by "Son Sac." In 1979, Marcoeur aligns with the avant-garde "Rock in Opposition" scene, without fully being a part of it. A remarkable album by a remarkable artist.
Comes in a CD-sized papersleeve album replica (Mini-LP), with obi-strip.