Markusfeld, Alain - Le Monde En Etages (CD)

This very rare and collectable debut album by French guitarist was originally released in 1970 by local Barcley label (the home of Jimi Hendrix) and at the time was one of the earliest ‘late psych/early prog’ records released in France - along with Ame Son’s ‘Catalyse’ LP! This almost completely unknown (never before released on CD) and still underrated record was filled with varied, imaginative and very intense songs (sung in French) based mostly on heavy, electric guitar riffs, inventive organ/piano parts and solid drumming (with occasional acoustic moments or pleaseant saxophone or flute passages) supplemented by slightly distorted vocals, weird sonic effects and some experimental, early Floydish bits. This is rather dark, but very atmospheric and extremely awarding album!