Magma

Release Overview

Magma's album Köhntarkösz was released on September 10, 1974, under the A&M Records label. This French band, known for their unique blend of jazz and rock, continued to explore their distinctive sound in this release. Köhntarkösz follows their previous album, Mekanik Destruktiw Kommandoh, and features a more compact lineup focused around Christian Vander's drumming and Jannick Top's bass work.

Recording Details

The album was recorded between May 1 and May 12, 1974, at the Manor Mobile studio located at the Bastide de Pierrefeu in Valbonne, France. This setting provided an ideal backdrop for the band to craft their intricate compositions. Produced by Giorgio Gomelsky, the album captures the band's progressive sound with a mix of jazz-rock and fusion elements. Recording engineer Simon Heyworth played a crucial role in shaping the album's sonic quality.

Musical Structure

Köhntarkösz comprises four tracks, prominently featuring the lengthy "Köhntarkosz (Part One)" and "Köhntarkosz (Part Two)." The first part runs for 15 minutes and 24 seconds, while the second extends to 15 minutes and 59 seconds. These pieces are characterized by complex time signatures and instrumental interplays, showcasing the band’s progressive rock influences. The track "Ork Alarm," composed by Jannick Top, serves as an early version of his later work "De Futura," which would appear on the 1976 album Udu Wudu. This track emphasizes Top's distinctive bass playing alongside Gerard Bikialo's Yamaha organ work.

Personnel and Credits

The album features several key musicians, including Christian Vander on drums, vocals, piano, and percussion, and Jannick Top on bass and cello. Other members include Klaus Blasquiz and Stella Vander on vocals, Michel Graillier on piano and clavinet, and Brian Godding on guitar. The album's artwork was created by Fabio Nicoli, with photography by Malcolm Robertson, adding a visual dimension to the release.

Track Highlights

Among the notable tracks is "Coltrane Sundia," a tribute to the influential jazz saxophonist John Coltrane. This piece reflects the band's admiration for jazz and its improvisational spirit, which is woven throughout their work. The combination of different instruments and vocal styles contributes to the album's rich and layered sound profile.

Köhntarkösz was recorded at the Manor Mobile studio in Valbonne, France.