Heldon

Release Overview

"Third - It's Always Rock'n'Roll" is the third studio album by French electronic rock group Heldon, released in 1975. This double-LP was produced by Richard Pinhas under the pseudonym Joe Chip, named after a character from Philip K. Dick's novels. The album was released on Pinhas's own label, Disjuncta, marking a significant step in the evolution of the band's sound.

Musical Elements

The album is characterized by a blend of electronic and rock influences. It incorporates heavy tape loop guitar textures reminiscent of Frippertronics, along with analog synthesizer drones created using ARP 2600 and EMS VCS3. The presence of the Mellotron adds a lush, atmospheric layer to the overall soundscape. Guest musicians contribute acoustic and electronic percussion, enhancing the experimental nature of the work. Gilbert Artman, known for his work with Lard Free, plays drums on "Mechammment Rock," while Jean-My Truong provides drums on "Doctor Bloodmoney."

Conceptual Inspirations

Heldon’s music is deeply rooted in science fiction themes. Richard Pinhas's visit to Philip K. Dick in California prior to the album's recording is a notable influence. The track "Doctor Bloodmoney" directly references one of Dick's novels, while the producer credit “Joe Chip” further reinforces this connection. The album reflects a fascination with futuristic concepts and experimental sounds, creating an immersive listening experience.

Track Highlights

Side B features the 18-minute ambient piece "Aurore," which exemplifies the band's ability to create expansive soundscapes. In contrast, Side D includes the 17-minute electronic-rock epic "Doctor Bloodmoney," showcasing a blend of structured rock elements and free-form exploration. These lengthy tracks provide a platform for the band's experimental tendencies, pushing the boundaries of conventional music formats.

Release Information

"Third - It's Always Rock'n'Roll" was released in 1975 as a 2x Vinyl LP album. The album features contributions from various musicians, including Richard Pinhas on ARP & VCS3 synthesizers, Mellotron, electric guitar, and bass.