Magma

Release Overview

"Inedits" is a compilation album by the French band Magma, released in 1977 on the Tapioca label. This album gathers six tracks that had been performed live but had not appeared on any studio recordings before this release. The recordings were made between 1972 and 1975, capturing the band in various configurations and settings. The result is a unique blend of jazz, rock, and avant-garde influences, which are hallmarks of Magma's style.

Musical Composition

The album consists of six tracks, each showcasing the band's complex musical arrangements. Christian Vander and Jannick Top are credited with writing the expansive "Sowiloi (Soi-Soi) + KMX-E XII - Opus 3," which runs for 13:45. Other tracks include "Om Zanka," "Gamma," and "Terrien Si Je T'ai Convoque," all penned by Vander. The album's diversity is reflected in its varying lineups, featuring multiple musicians throughout its tracks. Key contributors include bassists such as Bernard Paganotti and Jannick Top, along with guitarists like Claude Olmos and Gabriel Federow.

Recording Context

The recordings for "Inedits" were captured using available equipment at the time, whether during live performances or rehearsals. This raw approach gives the album a distinctive sound, different from studio productions. The album credits a wide range of musicians, emphasizing the band's collaborative spirit. Drummer Christian Vander is present on all tracks, while Klaus Blasquiz contributes vocals and artwork for the album.

Post-Release Developments

Three of the tracks from "Inedits" were later reworked for Magma's 2004 studio album "Kohntarkosz Anteria." This continuity highlights the band's evolving musical journey while preserving earlier compositions. The album serves as a bridge between different periods of the band's history, encapsulating their development in the early 1970s.

Track Credits

The album features contributions from a variety of musicians, which include saxophonists Jeff Seffer and Teddy Lasry, trumpeter Louis Toesca, and violinist Didier Lockwood, among others. The variety of instruments and styles used throughout the album contributes to its unique sound. The recording was overseen by producers Giorgio Gomelsky, Klaus Blasquiz, and Louis Sarkissian.

Release Format

"Inedits" was released in vinyl format, typical of the era. The album’s cover art, handled by Klaus Blasquiz, reflects the avant-garde aesthetic that Magma is known for. The album maintains a strong connection to the band's live roots, emphasizing their theatrical and immersive performance style.

The album was released in France in 1977, featuring six tracks recorded between 1972 and 1975.