LES CONCERTS EN CHINE

Jarre's Concerts en Chine was recorded in Beijing and Shanghai during his tour in China in October 1981, five concerts in total, and was the first time China allowed a western artist to perform in their country, making this a bit of a historical document. Parts of the Oxygene album was performed and recorded on this tour, but omitted from this release, instead focusing on the Equinoxe and Magnetic Fields albums, the latter being nearly performed in it's entirety here. There's an incredible set of six new tracks too, ranging from the hypnotic sequencer driven 'Arpégiateur' and 'Night in Shanghai', to a fantastic rendition of 'Fishing Junks at Sunset', a traditional tune performed with the Peking Symphony orchestra! Jarre and his group of performers add several interesting twists to every song here and brings an exciting sound to this material, and the tracks segues into each other sometimes with samples of the concert surroundings and other fun stuff for a great effect of immediacy while listening, something that Jarre would repeat on the Houston/Lyon album later on. Also, the first appearance of the iconic laser harp is here, another future trademark for Jarre. This live album has a very exciting set list and flow to it that doesn't outstay it's welcome at 79 minutes, and is overall highly recommended!

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Posted Saturday, July 30, 2005 | Review this album | Report (Review #40994)

I do not collect all albums of Jean-Michel Jarre - I have only some of them. It's not because of the music is not good at all but it's because of budget constraint: he has released so many albums that I could not keep up. This album is one of his finest in addition to the concert in Lyon. The music presented here represents his excellent musicianship to create such a dynamic and tight composition using keyboard and programming / sequencing. I would say that all tracks are enjoyable here. From the stimulating intro "The Overture" (4:47) the music continues with energetic and mental thrilling track "Arpegiator" (6:54). Oh yes, whenever I spin this album and this track is played I always emulate how the music is performed - using a multi layered keyboard works and percussion / drums. Wonderful track.

In "Fishing Junks at Sunset" (9:38) jean brought together his collaborative effort with the Chinese orchestra and performed this track stunningly. It touches your heart, I believe. The strong point of this track is the use of sitar or mandolin with an Eastern nuance. "Band in the Rain" (1:29) is a short track which gives uplifting mood to my ears. The other tracks that I think attractive are: "Orient Express" (4:22), "Laser Harp" (3:37), " The Last Rumba" (2:11) - what a treat!, and my all-time favorite of Jean Michel's: "Souvenir de Chine" (3:54).

If you enjoy space music, you should own this CD. It's worth listening to. Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW

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Posted Wednesday, August 24, 2005 | Review this album | Report (Review #44073)

I've always like this live abum from the erstwhile JM Jarre.Here he plays as part of a band with a real drummer driving the music.The whole thing has more of a prog feel to it as a result as we are taken through the best tracks from the excellent Magnetic Fields and Equinox albums.He also tackles the beautifull traditional 'Fishing Junks At Sunset' as well as throwing in a few newer peices.The sound is immaculate throughout.Recommended listening for prog fans who love synths!

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Posted Thursday, September 15, 2005 | Review this album | Report (Review #46653)

This live album is documenting the first ever gig by a western artist in China. Jean Michel Jarre is not exactly a rebellious artist with a hatred towards authorities. So he was a safe artist for the paranoid regime in China. It is obvious China also coloured Jean Michel Jarre when playing th ... (read more)

Report this review (#589021) | Posted by toroddfuglesteg | Friday, December 16, 2011 | Review Permanlink

The first time I listened to Jean Michel Jarre was on my old turntable. My brother left me double vinyl and was impressed. Subsequently I was hearing more of JM Jarre and I never went back to find the warmth that transmit these performances. It is also an impressive historical document: The first ... (read more)

Report this review (#367571) | Posted by David Saez | Wednesday, December 29, 2010 | Review Permanlink

"Les Concerts En Chine" ,or "The Concerts in China", is an excellent example of 70's Jarre. This disc is one of those rare electronic live albums where the result comes out even better than in the studio albums. Not that I don't like Oxygene, Equinoxe or Magnetic Fields, but this one has a ni ... (read more)

Report this review (#60429) | Posted by 1971 | Thursday, December 15, 2005 | Review Permanlink

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