ECLAT EN CONCERT 1998 - MARSEILLE/TOKYO

Eclat was one of the actually successful 1990s progressive groups, releasing several albums and performing electrifying concerts that were enthusiastically attended, if this CD is any indication. Mostly instrumental, "Eclat en Concert" showcases the considerable talents of guitarist Alain Chiarazzo, his sometimes melodramatic voice (this is French prog after all), and a general penchant for improvisation. While some is too jammy for my tastes, and the raucous leads do occasionally go on ad infinitum, Eclat has a knack for generating excitement with their buildups, and the members are so clearly on the same page that it is hard not to admire them.

This might not be a CD that I will put on a lot, or have in regular rotation in any electronic device, but it is surely one to pick out when I want to experience the feeling that I am in the audience at a symphonic prog performance by a band I will likely never get a chance to see. Oh, and "VITRIOL", the gorgeously swaying "Sequoia", and the fun-loving "Circus" are all pretty darn hot too!