🇫🇷 Satan (1973) Review | Obscure French Symphonic Prog Rock Rarity

In the vast landscape of 1970s progressive rock, France contributed several notable acts that blended the genre's complexity with unique cultural elements. Among these, the band Satan stands out for their sole, self-titled album recorded in 1973. Though it remained unreleased for over four decades, its eventual emergence offers a fascinating glimpse into the era's underground music scene.

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The Band's Origins and Context

Formed in 1968 in Le Mans, France, Satan began their musical journey under the name The New Rainbow. Comprising young students with aspirations in education, the group drew inspiration from English blues and progressive rock bands like Pink Floyd, Soft Machine, and Led Zeppelin. Their evolution into Satan marked a shift towards a more experimental and theatrical approach, aligning with the burgeoning French progressive rock movement of the early 1970s.

Recording Process and Production Notes

In 1973, Satan recorded their eponymous album at Studio 20 in Angers, France. Despite the professional recording environment, the album was never officially released at the time. The reasons remain unclear, but the tapes were preserved, allowing for a posthumous release decades later. In 2016, Monster Mélodies Records issued the album on red vinyl, limited to 1,000 numbered copies, complete with a gatefold cover, poster, and inserts.

Track-by-Track Analysis

1. Le Voyage
Opening with atmospheric tones, “Le Voyage” sets the album's exploratory mood. The track features intricate guitar work and layered keyboards, creating a soundscape that evokes a journey through unknown realms.

2. O.S.
“O.S.” introduces a more structured composition, blending rhythmic complexity with melodic motifs. The interplay between instruments showcases the band's tight musicianship and progressive sensibilities.

3. Le Robot
This track delves into themes of mechanization and humanity's relationship with technology. The mechanical rhythms and synthesized sounds reflect the song's conceptual focus.

4. La Nuit des Temps
The album's centerpiece, “La Nuit des Temps,” unfolds over nine minutes of dynamic shifts and thematic development. The composition traverses various moods, from serene passages to intense crescendos, embodying the essence of progressive rock storytelling.

5. L’Aigle
Concluding the album, “L’Aigle” combines soaring melodies with powerful instrumentation. The track's title, meaning “The Eagle,” is mirrored in its uplifting and expansive musical themes.

Influences and Stylistic Choices

Satan's music reflects a confluence of influences from both British progressive rock and French musical traditions. The band's affinity for groups like Pink Floyd and Soft Machine is evident in their experimental structures and sonic textures. Simultaneously, their incorporation of French lyrical themes and theatrical elements aligns them with contemporaries such as Ange and Magma.

Reception and Legacy

At the time of its recording, Satan remained unheard by the public, its existence known only to a select few. The 2016 release brought the album to light, garnering attention from progressive rock enthusiasts and collectors. Critics praised its authenticity and the band's ability to capture the spirit of the era. The album is now considered a valuable artifact within the French progressive rock canon.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories and Trivia

Theatrical Performances: Satan was known for their elaborate live shows, featuring makeup, costumes, and light displays. These performances enhanced the band's mystical and avant-garde image, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.

Preservation of Tapes: The original recordings were preserved by keyboardist Jérôme Lavigne, whose dedication ensured the album's eventual release. The 2016 edition is dedicated to his memory.

Recommended Listening Context

Satan is ideal for listeners who appreciate the experimental edge of 1970s progressive rock. Fans of bands like Ange, Magma, and early Pink Floyd will find the album's fusion of atmospheric soundscapes and complex arrangements particularly engaging. Its historical significance also makes it a compelling listen for those interested in the evolution of French rock music.

Connection to Other Works

As Satan's only album, Satan stands as a singular expression of the band's artistic vision. However, its themes and stylistic elements resonate with the broader French progressive rock movement of the time. Listeners may explore related works by contemporaries such as Ange's Au-delà du Délire and Magma's Mëkanïk Dëstruktïẁ Kömmandöh for a more comprehensive understanding of the genre's landscape.

Summary: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Authentic representation of 1970s French progressive rock
• Innovative compositions blending various musical influences
• Rich historical context and theatrical elements

Cons:

• Limited availability due to its late release and limited pressing
• Production quality may reflect the era's recording limitations

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SATAN LP/1973 France/Unreleased Heavy Prog Rock/Genesis/Heaven Road/Ciel D'été

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