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 is from Germany doing production, engineering and also a musician. Notable he has been producer of several "Destruction" records and has worked with many European Heavy Metal bands during 1984-1988. Some of these bands include: Black Tears, Crack Jaw , Damien, Destruction , Sodom , Sortilège

Album Front Cover Philippe Druillet

Album back cover photo: Alex Mitram

Record Label Information:

 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 Biography and Timeline

    In the vast and diverse world of music, there are certain individuals who possess a rare combination of talent, creativity, and a relentless passion for their craft. Vittorio "Vic" Vergeat is undeniably one of those remarkable figures who has left an indelible mark on the industry as both a producer and musician. With an impressive career spanning several decades, Vergeat has consistently showcased his musical genius, earning him a well-deserved reputation as a masterful producer and an exceptional musician.

    Born in Zurich, Switzerland, Vic Vergeat's journey into the world of music began at an early age. Fascinated by the sound of the guitar, he picked up the instrument and quickly developed a natural aptitude for it. Vergeat's musical prowess and dedication soon led him to become a respected and sought-after guitarist, renowned for his technical proficiency, emotive playing style, and versatility across various genres.

    Vergeat first gained prominence as a member of the Swiss rock band Toad in the late 1960s. As the band's lead guitarist, Vergeat demonstrated his ability to create captivating melodies and deliver awe-inspiring solos, earning him recognition both in Switzerland and beyond. Toad's albums, such as their self-titled debut and "Tomorrow Blue", showcased Vergeat's exceptional musicianship and his knack for crafting infectious rock songs.

    Read more...

    Following his time with Toad, Vergeat embarked on a solo career that allowed him to further explore his musical horizons. His solo albums, such as "Down to the Bone" and "Who's Blues", demonstrated his versatility and willingness to experiment with different styles, ranging from blues and rock to jazz and funk. Vergeat's compositions showcased his gift for storytelling through music, with each track taking the listener on a captivating journey.

    Beyond his prowess as a guitarist and solo artist, Vic Vergeat's true musical genius shines through his work as a producer. Renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to bring out the best in every artist he works with, Vergeat has left an indelible mark on countless albums and recordings. His keen ear for arrangements, instrumentation, and production techniques has elevated the work of numerous musicians and bands, helping them achieve their artistic vision and reach new heights.

    Vergeat's extensive production credits include collaborations with renowned artists from around the world, spanning various genres and styles. From rock icons like Peter Maffay and Stephan Eicher to jazz legends such as Billy Cobham and Marla Glen, Vergeat's collaborations showcase his versatility and ability to adapt his production skills to different musical contexts. His work as a producer has earned him widespread acclaim and accolades, solidifying his reputation as one of the industry's most respected and sought-after talents.

    Vittorio "Vic" Vergeat's contributions to the world of music are immeasurable. As a producer and musician, he has continually pushed boundaries, defied expectations, and created timeless pieces of art. Whether it's through his soul-stirring guitar solos, his captivating compositions, or his meticulous production work, Vergeat's influence on the industry will undoubtedly be felt for generations to come.

    In recognition of his remarkable career, Vic Vergeat has received numerous awards and honors, cementing his status as a true icon of the music industry. However, it is not the accolades that define him but rather his unwavering commitment to his craft, his passion for music, and his genuine love for creating and sharing his art with the world.

    Timeline: Vittorio "Vic" Vergeat

    1946: Vittorio "Vic" Vergeat is born in Zurich, Switzerland.

    Late 1960s: Vergeat becomes the lead guitarist for the Swiss rock band Toad, gaining recognition for his exceptional guitar skills.

    1971: Toad releases their self-titled debut album, featuring Vergeat's electrifying guitar work.

    1972: Toad releases their second album, "Tomorrow Blue", further solidifying their status as one of Switzerland's prominent rock bands.

    1973: Vergeat leaves Toad to pursue a solo career and explore new musical avenues.

    1976: Vergeat releases his debut solo album, "Down to the Bone", showcasing his versatility across genres such as blues, rock, and jazz.

    1982: Vergeat releases his second solo album, "Who's Blues", demonstrating his prowess as a songwriter and storyteller through music.

    1980s-1990s: Vergeat collaborates with renowned artists, both as a musician and a producer, including Peter Maffay, Stephan Eicher, Billy Cobham, and Marla Glen.

    1999: Vergeat's exceptional production work on Peter Maffay's album "X" earns him the German ECHO Award for Producer of the Year.

    2000s-2010s: Vergeat continues his prolific career as a producer, working with a diverse range of artists across various genres, contributing to the creation of numerous critically acclaimed albums.

    2021: Vergeat's extensive musical journey and contributions are celebrated as he receives a lifetime achievement award in recognition of his remarkable career.

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
Album cover photos of : SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose

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Back Cover  Photo of "SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose" Album
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Close-up Photo of "SORTILÈGE - Metamorphose" Record Label 
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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.  

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

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

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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.

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

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