Taï Phong

Release Overview

"Windows" is the second studio album by the French progressive rock band Taï Phong, released in October 1976 under Warner Bros. Records (catalog number 56 272). This record follows the success of their debut album and features a blend of rock genres, including symphonic and art rock. The album was produced by Jean Mareska and recorded at Studio I.P. in Boulogne, France, with a lineup that includes prominent musicians such as Jean-Jacques Goldman and Khanh Maï.

Musical Composition

The album consists of six tracks that demonstrate the band’s development into a more intricate style of progressive rock. The opener, "When It's The Season," is an eight-minute epic that sets the tone for the record with its dynamic shifts and layered vocal harmonies. This is followed by the melodic single "Games," which showcases the band’s ability to blend catchy melodies with complex arrangements.

"St. John's Avenue" is a seven-minute progressive suite that highlights the band's skill in creating extended compositions. The instrumental track "Circle" serves as a platform for Jean-Alain Gardet's keyboard talents, featuring the Mellotron and Moog synthesizer. The album also includes "Last Chance" and the ten-minute piece "The Gulf Of Knowledge," which acts as a symphonic climax for the record.

Instrumentation and Arrangement

The instrumentation throughout "Windows" is rich and varied. Jean-Jacques Goldman and Khanh Maï provide both lead vocals and electric, as well as acoustic guitar work. The bass guitar and keyboards played by Taï Sinh add depth to the sound. Jean-Alain Gardet’s contributions on the acoustic piano, Hammond organ, and synthesizers create a lush backdrop that complements the intricate guitar interplay. Stéphan Caussarieu’s drumming and percussion help to maintain the album's rhythmic complexity.

Recording and Production

The recording at Studio I.P. was engineered by Khanh Maï, who played an essential role in shaping the overall sound of the album. The production quality reflects the standards of the mid-1970s progressive rock scene, with careful attention to layering and arrangement. The cover design by Lang and photography by Dominique Cazenave add visual elements that tie in with the album's themes.

"Windows" provides a detailed look into the evolution of Taï Phong as they embraced the symphonic elements of progressive rock. This album serves as a key part of their discography, marking their artistic growth during a pivotal time in the genre. The record is a product of its time, released in France in 1976.