Gong

Release Overview

"Gong Est Mort, Vive Gong!" is a live double LP released in late 1977 by the French label Tapioca. The album captures Gong's reunion concert held on May 28, 1977, at the Hippodrome de Paris. This performance featured the original lineup, including Daevid Allen, Gilli Smyth, and Steve Hillage, among others. The concert was a part of a festival organized by promoter Jacques Pasquier, which also included performances from offshoot bands like Mike Howlett's Strontium 90.

Concert Context

The live recording presents an 80-minute performance that delighted approximately 6,000 fans. The setlist includes selections from the "Radio Gnome Invisible" trilogy and tracks from "Camembert Electrique." The musicians involved brought a blend of psychedelic and progressive rock, showcasing their unique style. Tracks such as "Can't Kill Me" and "Radio Gnome Invisible" highlight the band's eclectic sound.

Technical Details

This album was recorded live with Andy Scott as the sound engineer. Mixing responsibilities were handled by Christian Gence and Daevid Allen. Notably, Steve Hillage's contributions on guitar were uncredited due to legal disputes with Virgin Records, which adds an interesting layer to the release's history. The album is presented in a gatefold format, characteristic of many vinyl releases from that era.

Musicians and Contributions

The lineup features key members who defined Gong's sound. Daevid Allen provided lead vocals and guitar, while Gilli Smyth contributed her distinctive space whisper. Didier Malherbe played the saxophones and flutes, and Tim Blake added synthesizers and keyboards. The drumming duties were handled by Pierre Moerlen, adding a rhythmic backbone to the band's experimental sound. Guest musicians, including Jorge Pinchevsky, further enriched the live performance.

Release and Reception

"Gong Est Mort, Vive Gong!" serves as a historical document of a unique moment for the band. The recording captures the energy and enthusiasm of the audience, reflecting the band's impact on the psychedelic and progressive rock scenes. The album's release by Tapioca Records marked a significant departure from mainstream labels, illustrating the independent spirit of the era.

The album features a live performance recorded on May 28, 1977, at the Hippodrome de Paris.