ZAO

Album Overview

Released in 1975, "Shekina" is an album by the French band Zao, distributed by RCA Victor. This vinyl LP features a blend of rock, jazz, and progressive rock elements. The album was recorded at Studio I.P. in July 1975 and showcases the band’s unique sound, incorporating a string quartet into their established instrumentation.

Musical Composition

"Shekina" contains six tracks, with the majority written by saxophonist Yochk'o Jeff Seffer. The opening piece, "Joyl," is penned by keyboardist François "Faton" Cahen. The album's structure emphasizes a fusion of jazz and rock, characterized by intricate arrangements and dynamic performances. The string ensemble, Quatuor Margand, adds depth to the overall sound, enhancing the group's traditional lineup of bass, drums, and woodwinds.

Band Members and Contributions

The core members of Zao include François Cahen on keyboards, Yochk'o Seffer on saxophone and clarinet, Gérard Prévost on bass guitar, and Jean-My Truong on drums. The addition of Claudine Lassere on cello, Françoise Douchet on viola, and violinists Michèle Margand and Marie-Françoise Viaud enriches the album's texture. Each musician contributes to the album's intricate musical narrative, creating a complex interplay of sounds.

Production Details

The album was produced by François Cahen and Pascal Legros, with engineering by Andy Scott. The front cover artwork was created by Yochk'o Jeff Seffer, who also contributed to the album's production. The photography for the album was done by Michel Adda, encapsulating the essence of the band and its music.

Release Information

"Shekina" was released under the catalog number FPL 1 0097. It has been categorized under various tags, including rock, jazz, jazz-rock, and progressive rock, reflecting its diverse influences. The album exemplifies the experimental spirit of the mid-1970s French music scene.

The album features a total of six compositions, with four tracks attributed to Yochk'o Seffer and two to François Cahen.