Alco Frisbass – Le Bateleur (Fading Records, 2018)
Alco Frisbass’s second album, Le Bateleur, draws inspiration from the Canterbury sound, particularly National Health. Chiefly, the album delves into the world of profound secrets and mysteries. Notably, song titles such as “Soufre et mercure” (Sulfur and mercury) allude to alchemical elements, while “Arcane majeur” (Major Arcana) focuses on arcane themes.
This album introduces a fresh lineup, maintaining the core presence of multi-instrumentalists Fabrice “Chfab” Chouette and Patrick “Paskinel” Dufour. A new addition, a third member and fellow multi-instrumentalist, contributes extra keyboard expertise. Consequently, Le Bateleur is enriched with delightful keyboard arrangements, catering to the preferences of electric piano, analog synthesizer, distorted organ, and Mellotron enthusiasts.
While the Canterbury influences persist, the album also incorporates elements from classic progressive rock, Zeuhl, and quirky nuances. Le Bateleur stands out as a fully instrumental experience, featuring a dynamic interplay of high-energy pieces rooted in keyboards and tranquil passages that transport listeners to serene spaces.
Musicians: Fabrice “Chfab” Chouette on guitar, keyboards, synthesizer; Patrick “Paskinel” Dufour on keyboards, synth, drums programming; Frédéric Chaput on electric & acoustic guitars, bass, keyboards, synth, percussion.
Guests: Jean-Luc Payssan on guitar; Eric Rebeyrol on cornet; Thierry Payssan on piano.
Buy Le Bateleur.