Ange

Label: Philips
Country: France
Released: 1974
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Exploring Au-Dela Du Delire

Released in 1974 by the French progressive rock band Ange, Au-Dela Du Delire is their third studio album. This work came out under the Philips label and quickly gained recognition, obtaining gold certification in France by 1976. The album presents a narrative centered around a character named Godevin le Vilain, a wandering peasant poet. The story is conveyed through the distinct vocal delivery of Christian Decamps, who serves as both the lead vocalist and a key figure in the band's creative direction.

Musical Composition

The album comprises eight tracks that blend various musical elements. Ange incorporates instruments such as flute, mandolin, and harpsichord, which contribute to the medieval ambiance of certain passages. In contrast, the use of organ, Mellotron, and electric guitar introduces a more turbulent sound during other segments. This juxtaposition creates a dynamic listening experience that reflects the thematic content of the album. Notable tracks include "Les Longues Nuits D'Isaac," written by F. Decamps, and "Au-Dela Du Delire," penned by J.M. Brezovar. Each composition showcases the band's ability to weave intricate narratives through music.

Live Performances and Challenges

During the time surrounding the album's release, Christian Decamps faced a challenging situation when he fractured his heels during a stage jump. Despite this injury, he continued to perform, delivering the album's initial live shows from a wheelchair. This determination highlighted the band's commitment to their music and their audience, even in difficult circumstances.

Recognition

In later years, Au-Dela Du Delire received attention from music critics. The French edition of Rolling Stone ranked it 73rd on their list of the 100 greatest French rock albums. This acknowledgment reflects the album's standing within the French rock scene and its contribution to the genre.

Release Format

Au-Dela Du Delire was released in vinyl format as an LP album. The physical medium contributed to its accessibility and popularity among fans at the time. The album's blend of rock, space rock, and progressive rock elements continues to intrigue listeners today.

Christian Decamps played a pivotal role in the writing of several tracks on the album, including "Godevin Le Vilain" and "Fils De Lumiere."

Tracklist

A1	Godevin Le Vilain Written-By – C. Décamps*	2:57
A2	Les Longues Nuits D'Isaac Written-By – C. DécampsWritten-By – F. Décamps	4:10
A3	Si J'étais Le Messie Written-By – C. DécampsWritten-By – G. Jielsch	3:00
A4	Ballade Pour Une Orgie Written-By – C. DécampsWritten-By – J.M. Brézovar	3:22
A5	Exode Written-By – C. DécampsWritten-By – F. Décamps	5:00
B1	La Bataille Du Sucre (Inclus: "La Colère Des Dieux") Written-By – C. DécampsWritten-By – D. Haas	6:30
B2	Fils De Lumière Written-By – C. DécampsWritten-By – F. Décamps	3:20
B3	Au Delà Du Délire Written-By – C. DécampsWritten-By – J.M. Brézovar	8:20

Credits

Bass [Rickenbacker], Classical Guitar – Daniel Haas
Cover [Outside] – Philippe Huart
Drums, Percussion – Gérard Jelsch
Electric Guitar [Fender Stratocaster], Twelve-String Guitar [Fender], Mandolin, Flute, Vocals – Jean-Michel Brezo'var*
Engineer – Henri Loustau
Organ [Viscount], Celesta, Vocals – Francis Décamps*
Producer – Claude Bibonne
Violin – Henri Loustau
Vocals, Electric Organ [Hammond], Piano, Harpsichord – Christian Décamps*