1975-1979

An excellent compilation that reissues two difficult-to-acquiure albums and gives on each disc some superb bonus tracks that add much value to the the respective albums. Vortex was one of France's more bscure group, but in no way was that justified as they were probably one of the most gifted. While most will prefer the second album, Les Cycles De Tanathos, I have a weaknesss for the debut album which is not only happier jazz-rock, rather than sombre chamber prog, but also sounds much like the great Out Of Focus group.

What a hidden gem this group Vortex is! I had not heard of them, but gave them a try through our good friend Syn-Phonic Music.

Surprise, surprise, surprise...an RIO giant.

The playing is superb, the usage of the instrumentation's voicing is stripped down, yet huge. But what makes this so irresistible is the composition. Such a wonderful blending of RIO with a lighter jazz feel, that you never stop listening with open ears. Instead once the music starts, your sucked into their world.

Both CD's are wonderful, but I enjoy the second more, as I really like the darker, more ominous setting it pictures in your mind. This would have been wonderful in a live setting, as it has enough energy to be that perfect RIO: the rock element driving the underside of the giant ship that prowls in the Avante Guard sea of bliss.

I must also mention that the recording is superb, which is a blessing, since this era of our beloved progressive music was beginning to be frowned on, and production quality downgraded to less than pro quality. But not here, as the recording quality is clean and thick with power of the big label artist.

Thank goodness this Progarchives exist, and there are retail dealers that support our addiction. If you like Univers Zero (the gods of this stuff) mixed with a slight jazzier, dare I say Canterbury influence, go get this CD, it'll be a nice gift to yourself!