OXYGENE

A great classic electronic album. Jarre recorded this entirely instrumental album in his home using a variety of analog synthesizers and other electronic instruments and effects. It was a bold move and was created at a time when many people were skeptical of electronic music. However, "Oxygene" was highly successful and became a best seller. Although the album sounded more impressive and futuristic in the 70's, it has withstood the test of time. The recording is of high quality too.

This release wasn't exactly the first of its kind, but Jarre's style was distinctive. The six parts build around many moods and melodic patterns which are often quite mysterious as as well as atmospheric. The synthesisers do a nice job of recreating orchestral layers around the other swirling textures. Parts I and II are some of my favourites. "Oxygene III" is also great and quite haunting, while the most recognisable part IV is rather majestic. The closing piece is also a personal favourite.

The inspiration for "Oxygene" came from a creepy painting by the artist Michel Granger. It shows the Earth peeling to reveal a skull and Jarre gained the artist's permission to use the image for this album. Many parts of the record were used in film scores especially during the early eighties, including "Gallipoli" and for the French oceanographer Jacques Cousteau's documentary "Palawan". Fans of Tangerine Dream, Klaus Schulze of Kraftwerk should appreciate this stunning work. 4 shining stars.