SORTILÈGE - METAMORPHOSE - incl LYRICS SHEET DLS 584 12" Vinyl LP Album

Sortilège's "Métamorphose" is a groundbreaking symphonic power metal album that revolutionized the genre with its powerful vocals, soaring melodies, and innovative blend of classical and heavy metal instrumentation. The album's original French version, distinguished by its authentic and mystical atmosphere, has become the most beloved and cherished by fans. Its impact on the genre and the French metal scene is immeasurable, and the album will continue to inspire and delight fans for generations to come.

 

Album Front Cover SORTILÈGE - METAMORPHOSE

"Métamorphose" Album Description:

In the world of symphonic power metal, few albums hold the same revered status as Sortilège's "Métamorphose." Released in 1984 by the French record label Devil's Records, this groundbreaking album marked a pivotal moment in the development of the genre. Featuring powerful vocals, soaring melodies, and a blend of classical and heavy metal instrumentation, "Métamorphose" captivated audiences worldwide and established Sortilège as pioneers of the symphonic power metal movement.

The album's ten tracks seamlessly blend elements of power metal, symphonic music, and progressive rock, creating a unique and captivating soundscape. From the opening chords of the title track to the epic finale of "Évasion," "Métamorphose" is a sonic journey that leaves no stone unturned. The album's lyrical themes, often exploring themes of fantasy, mythology, and the human condition, further enhance the album's immersive experience.

The album's original release was distinguished by its all-French vocals, adding an extra layer of authenticity and mystique to the music. Subsequent reissues saw the songs performed in English, catering to a wider audience. However, the original French version remains the most sought-after and cherished by fans, preserving the band's original vision and the unique atmosphere of the album.

"Métamorphose"'s impact on the genre has been profound. It inspired countless bands to explore the possibilities of symphonic power metal, influencing the development of subgenres such as symphonic metal and progressive power metal. The album's legacy continues to endure, with "Métamorphose" still revered as a classic of the genre and a testament to the enduring power of music to transport and inspire listeners.

Lyrics Sheet:

The original 1984 Devils Records release of "Metamorphose" includes a valuable insert with complete lyrics of all songs by Sortilège. This addition allows fans to delve deeper into the band's poetic themes and immerse themselves fully in the music. Each track offers a unique story and a glimpse into the band's creative universe.

Production and Recording:

"Metamorphose" was produced by Peter Lat and recorded and mixed at Hermes Studio in Kamen, West Germany. The album benefited from the expertise of renowned engineer Wolfgang Eichholz, who skillfully crafted the sound to capture the raw energy and intensity of Sortilège's performance.

Album Artwork:

The album's front cover features artwork by Philippe Druillet, a celebrated French comic book artist known for his distinct and imaginative style. Druillet's intricate and otherworldly illustrations perfectly complement the album's themes of transformation and mysticism.

The back cover photo, taken by Alex Mitram, captures the band's aura and energy, providing a glimpse into the intensity of their live performances.

Music Genre:

Melodic Heavy Metal (France)

Album Production information:

The album: "SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose" was produced by: Peter Lat

Recorded and mixed at Hermes Studio, Kamen RFA

Remix Wolfgang Eichholz

  • Wolfgang Eichholz – Production, engineering, guitar

    The kind of behind-the-glass heavy-metal lifer who can play the riffs and still keep the tape rolling—German precision, but with real dirt under the fingernails.

    Wolfgang Eichholz, I am a German guitarist who ended up living a double life: one hand on the fretboard, the other on the faders. I played guitar in S.A.D.O. from 1983 to 1987, and in the mid-80s I was also deep in the engine-room side of metal—producing, engineering, and mixing for bands like Black Tears (1984), Damien (1984), Destruction (1984), Sodom (1985), and Crack Jaw (1985), with a later detour into remixing for Sortilege in 1997. I like the jobs where the band sounds dangerous but still hits like a hammer—because “raw” is a vibe, not an excuse.

  • Album Front Cover Philippe Druillet

    Album back cover photo: Alex Mitram

    Record Label & Catalognr:

    Devil's Records DLS 584

    Packaging:

    This album "SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose" includes the original insert with , complete lyrics of all songs by "Sortilege"

    Media Format:

    12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record

    Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram

    Year & Country:

    1984 Made in France

    Band Members and Musicians on: SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose
      Band-members, Musicians and Performers
    • Vocals : Christian Augustin (Christian "Zouille" Augustin was singer Sortilège from 1981-1986. Before joining Sortilège in 1981, he was in aDidier "Dem" Demajean played guitars in Sortilège from 1981-1986. band called "Correspondance".)
    • Guitars : Didier Demajean (Didier "Dem" Demajean played guitars in Sortilège from 1981-1986.)
    • Guitars : Stephane Dumont (Stéphane Dumont schoolfriend of Didier Demajean and together they formed the band "Blood Wave", this band became later "Sortilege". After Zouille left Sortilege, the band became "Bouche De Vieille". In 1992 "Stéphane Dumont" together with his partner "Carolyn Jones", started the band "Bliss". )
    • Bass : Daniel Lapp (Daniel "Lapin" Lapp started in the "Flagrant Delit" band , he joined "Blood Wave" in 1980 and followed "Stephane Dumont" and "Jean-Philippe Dumont" in the bands "Sortilege" and "Bliss". )
    • Drums : Bob Snake (Jean-Philippe "Bob" Dumont occasionally used the pseudonym "Bob Snake" and has played the drums in the French Heavy Metal/Cult band "Sortilège". )
    • Vic Vergaet - Synthesizer and piano

      Vic Vergeat, a Swiss musician and producer whose dynamic career spanned decades and genres. Enter the World of Vic Vergeat

    Complete Track Listing of: "SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose"

    The Songs/tracks on "SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose" are

    1. D'ailleurs 02:32
    2. Majesté 04:50
    3. Hymne à la Mort 05:30
    4. Légende 02:45
    5. Nuit des Limbes 02:25
    6. Civilisation Perdue 02:12
    7. Délire d'un Fou 05:25
    8. Cyclope de l'Etang 03:58
    9. Métamorphose 04:38

    Large Hires Photo  
    Back Cover  Photo of "SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose" Album
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    Close-up Photo of "SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose" Record Label 
    Large Hires Photo  
    Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash.

    Sortilège: The Heavy Metal Legacy of Belgium's Finest Rockers from the 80s

    Sortilège Band Description:

    Sortilège was a heavy metal band that was active in the 1980s. Formed in 1981, the band quickly gained a following in France with their unique blend of heavy metal and hard rock.

    The band's original lineup consisted of vocalist Christian Augustin, guitarists Daniel Lapp and Didier Demajean, bassist Bruno Ramos, and drummer Jean-Philippe Dumont. They released their debut album, self-titled "Sortilège," in 1983. The album was a hit in France, and the band soon became one of the most popular heavy metal acts in the country.

    Sortilège's music was characterized by its heavy, riff-driven sound and Christian Augustin's powerful vocals. The band's lyrics often dealt with dark and mysterious themes, such as witchcraft, magic, and the occult. Their music was influenced by bands like Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, and AC/DC, as well as French heavy metal acts like H-Bomb and Satan Jokers.

    In 1984, Sortilège released their second album, "Métamorphose," which further cemented their status as one of the top heavy metal bands in France. The album featured some of the band's most popular songs, including "Métamorphose" and "Amazone."

    Sortilège's success continued with their third album, "Larmes de Héros," which was released in 1986. The album was well-received by fans and critics alike and featured some of the band's most complex and ambitious music.

    Despite their success, Sortilège disbanded in 1987. The reasons for the breakup are unclear, but it is believed that the band's members wanted to pursue other musical projects.

    Sortilège's influence on the French heavy metal scene cannot be overstated. The band paved the way for a new generation of French metal bands, many of whom cite Sortilège as a major influence. Bands like ADX, Blasphème, and Killers all emerged in the wake of Sortilège's success.

    Sortilège's music continues to be celebrated by metal fans around the world. The band's albums have been reissued multiple times, and their music has been included on numerous compilations. Christian Augustin, the band's vocalist, has continued to perform and record music, both as a solo artist and as a member of various bands.  

    SORTILÈGE - Hero's Tears
    Thumbnail Of  Sortilège - Hero's Tears ( Heavy Metal, France ) 12" LP album front cover

    Steam Hammer SH 0036 , 1986 , Germany

    Explore Sortilège's "Hero's Tears," a French metal gem with a surprising German touch. This iconic album, born in 1986, showcases the prowess of French musicians, breaking stereotypes with its dynamic sound. The web-page offers a visual delight with hi-res photos, making it a must-visit for metal aficionados.

    Hero's Tears 12" Vinyl LP
    SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose
    Thumbnail Of  SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose ( Heavy Metal, France ) 12" LP album front cover

    Devil's Records DLS 584 , 1984 , Made in France

    Sortilège's "Métamorphose" is a groundbreaking symphonic power metal album that revolutionized the genre with its powerful vocals, soaring melodies, and innovative blend of classical and heavy metal instrumentation. The album's original French version, distinguished by its authentic and mystical atmosphere, has become the most beloved and cherished by fans. Its impact on the genre and the French metal scene is immeasurable, and the album will continue to inspire and delight fans for generations to come.

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    Thumbnail Of  SORTILÈGE - Self-Titled ( Heavy Metal, France ) 12" LP album front cover

    Rave-On Records – RMLP-003 , 1983 , Netherlands

    Sortilège by Sortilège is a 5-track extented play (EP) vinyl record and is the first official record by this French Heavy Metal band.

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