In short, this is well-done Zeuhl music.
If you can’t get enough Magma, Tozïh is a good choice. It features keyboard-driven electric jazz with sax and violin, repeating rhythmic structures with assertive bass, and four-part chant-like vocals. They are even from France and have a drummer named Captain Flapattak. What is not to like?
There are two main categories of Zeuhl bands – the ones that take the model of Magma and head off in different directions, and those that are closer to imitations. Rhùn is in the latter camp.
The 21-minute leadoff track, Ehmët Um Rhët Sam varies between the mid-and late-70s periods of Vander and company. This apparent influence takes a few minutes to establish itself, as the track begins with experimental textures and open improv with violin, sax, and gritty keys over a jazzy rhythm. But once the vocals kick in after nearly 7 minutes, their character and the pounding drum / bass playing leave no question. Indeed, echoes of Mëkanïk Dëstruktïẁ Kömmandöh are impossible to ignore.
But Magma has a certain vibe – the ability to be weirdly majestic in how their sound is so big, unusual, catchy, and campy simultaneously. Rhùn is the only other band that seems to capture this aspect of their musical progenitor.
After Ehmët Um Rhët Sam ends with a passage of intense chant that resembles the Üdü Ẁüdü period, Sédalg Rhëvé (incl.Ygahpoporhtna Lrig) hits hard with intense vocals, cyclic harmonies, and a rough-edged sax solo. The transforms into a quieter interlude of keyboard explorations before focusing on oddball chants. The latter is borderline silly but full of charm due to its intentionality.
The final piece, Eripme Cirtcele, is the shortest and most consistently vigorous. Between circular instrumental /vocal themes and staggered rhythms, it never lets up. If in question about this release, start here.
Rhùn has been around for 15 years or so, and this is only their second album. They are hinting at a quick turnaround for their third. Frankly, Tozïh is just so much fun despite being derivative, I cannot help but look forward to more from these folks.
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