Merci cover

Merci

Magma · 1985

40 min · 7 tracks · Zeuhl

A cosmic fusion of avant-garde jazz and rock, layered with choral vocals and intricate rhythms.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    I Must Return — This opening track encapsulates the album's ethereal quality with its haunting melodies and complex rhythmic structures that set the tone for the entire listening experience.
  • →
    Eliphas Levi — A lengthy exploration of mystical themes, this track showcases the band's signature mix of operatic vocals and intricate instrumentation, embodying their avant-garde ambitions.
  • →
    Call From the Dark (Ooh Ooh Baby) — This song features a captivating blend of catchy hooks and experimental sounds, illustrating Magma's ability to merge accessibility with artistic complexity.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • long immersive listening sessions
  • wave-like pacing experiences
  • gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on May 4, 1985, 'Merci' marked a transitional phase for Magma as it was their first album after a significant hiatus since 'Udu Wudu' in 1976. The band was re-establishing their presence in the progressive music scene while continuing to evolve their unique Zeuhl sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Henry Cow· Art Zoyd· Zao

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 I Must Return 6:32
  • 2 Eliphas Levi 11:15
  • 3 The Night We Died 3:40
  • 4 Call From the Dark (Ooh Ooh Baby) 7:20
  • 5 Do the Music 4:25
  • 6 Otis 5:20
  • 7 Otis (Ending) 1:32

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata