Axis

Axis

Axis Axis
Label: Riviera
Country: France
Released: 1973
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Release Overview

Axis, the Paris-based Greek progressive jazz-rock ensemble, released their third studio album in 1973. Titled simply "Axis" but often referred to as "Sewers Down Inside," this album showcases the band's evolution into a unique sound that blends elements of progressive rock, jazz-rock, and avant-prog. The album was released under the Riviera label, catalog number 521 199, and is available in vinyl LP format.

Musical Shift

This release marks a significant shift for Axis. After notable personnel changes, the band transitioned to a lineup focused on keyboards and dual drumming. The group consists of Demis Visvikis on electric and acoustic pianos, Mellotron, Hammond organ, and vocals; Alexandros Fantis on electric and upright bass; and dual percussionists George Hadjiathanassiou and Chris Stassinopoulos. This setup allowed for a rich tapestry of sound, emphasizing intricate keyboard work and complex rhythms.

Recording Details

Recorded in 1973 at Studio Aquarium and Le Château d'Hérouville in France, the album was engineered by Dominique Blanc-Francard, a respected figure in the French music scene. The production captures the band’s dynamic performances, highlighting the interplay between the keyboards and percussion. The sound design is intricate, creating an immersive listening experience.

Musical Characteristics

Axis presents a dramatic departure from conventional rock. The album features blistering electric piano solos and dark Mellotron passages. The dual drumming creates a complex polyrhythmic backdrop that is characteristic of the Canterbury scene. The track "Pa Vu Ga Di" is particularly noteworthy for its adaptation of a Byzantine hymn, showcasing the band’s diverse influences. Each composition is layered with avant-garde jazz textures, which challenge traditional song structures.

Track Highlights

Among the ten tracks on the album, "Waiting A Long Time" and "Sewers Down Inside" stand out for their intricate arrangements and thematic depth. The interplay of the instruments invites listeners into a world of sound that is both complex and engaging. The concluding track, "The Planet Vavoura," encapsulates the album's adventurous spirit, leaving a lasting impression.

Visual Presentation

The album cover features a painting by Alain Leray, while photography is credited to Alain Marouani. The visual elements complement the music, reflecting the avant-garde essence of the band's work. The artwork contributes to the overall aesthetic of the release, making it a cohesive package for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Axis was released in 1973, catalog number Riviera 521 199.

Tracklist

A1Waiting A Long Time
Written-By – Alecos Fandis*Written-By – Chris StassinopoulosWritten-By – Demis VisvikisWritten-By – George Hatziathanassiou*
4:26
A2Sewers Down Inside
Written-By – Alecos Fandis*Written-By – Chris StassinopoulosWritten-By – Demis VisvikisWritten-By – George Hatziathanassiou*
6:19
A3Materializing The Unlimited
Written-By – Alecos Fandis*Written-By – Chris StassinopoulosWritten-By – Demis VisvikisWritten-By – George Hatziathanassiou*
5:02
A4Asymphonia II
Written-By – Alecos Fandis*Written-By – Chris StassinopoulosWritten-By – Demis VisvikisWritten-By – George Hatziathanassiou*
5:05
B1Suspended Precipice
Written-By – Demis VisvikisWritten-By – George Hatziathanassiou*
1:49
B2Roads
Written-By – Demis VisvikisWritten-By – George Hatziathanassiou*
5:03
B3Asymphonia I
Written-By – Alecos Fandis*Written-By – Demis VisvikisWritten-By – George Hatziathanassiou*
2:48
B4Dancing Percussion
Written-By – Demis VisvikisWritten-By – George Hatziathanassiou*
2:37
B5Pa Vu Ga Di
Arranged By – Demis VisvikisArranged By – George Hatziathanassiou*Composed By [Bizantine Hymn] – Traditional
3:52
B6The Planet Vavoura
Written-By – Demis VisvikisWritten-By – George Hatziathanassiou*
3:56

Credits

  • Arranged By [The Arrangements Are By] – Axis
  • Drums, Percussion – Chris Stassinopoulos
  • Drums, Percussion – George Hadjiathanassiou*
  • Electric Bass, Bass, Percussion – Alexandros Fantis
  • Electric Piano, Piano, Mellotron, Organ, Vocals [Vocal], Percussion – Demis Visvikis
  • Engineer [Recording Engineer] – Dominique Blanc-Francard
  • Engineer [Recording Engineers] – Dominique Samarcq
  • Engineer [Recording Engineers] – Francis Miannay
  • Engineer [Recording Engineers] – Mike Lanaro*
  • Painting – Alain Leray
  • Photography By – Alain Marouani
  • Supervised By [Executive Supervision] – John Ardley
Tags:
ROCK Prog Rock
▶
Axis - Axis (1973)

SOLD OUT

← Back to list

CLOCKWORK

infocenter

Featured Recommendations "ROCK"