HARMONIUM ( PROG ROCK, Canada ) Featured Vinyl Albums and Album Cover Gallery

HARMONIUM Band Description:

 Harmonium is a Canadian progressive rock band that was formed in 1972 by Serge Fiori (vocals and guitar), Michel Normandeau (guitar), Louis Valois (bass), and Monique Fauteux (vocals). The band's music is characterized by its intricate and melodic arrangements, lush harmonies, and poetic lyrics.

 Harmonium's self-titled debut album was released in 1974 and immediately garnered critical acclaim. The album's opening track, "Harmonium," is a twelve-minute epic that showcases the band's impressive musicianship and songwriting skills. The album also includes other standout tracks such as "Si Doucement," "Le Premier Ciel," and "Un Musicien Parmi Tant D'autres."

 The band's second album, "Si On Avait Besoin D'une Cinquième Saison," was released in 1975 and is often considered to be their masterpiece. The album is a concept album that tells the story of a year in the life of a small Quebec town. The album's title translates to "If we needed a fifth season," which alludes to the idea that the story takes place in a world where there is an extra season between winter and spring. The album's standout tracks include "Vert," "Comme Un Fou," and "Depuis L'Automne."

 Harmonium's third and final album, "L'Heptade," was released in 1976. The album is a double album and is considered by many to be one of the greatest progressive rock albums of all time. The album is a concept album that tells the story of a spiritual journey through the seven stages of life. The album's standout tracks include "Prologue," "Dixie," and "Histoires Sans Paroles."

 Harmonium's music is often compared to that of other progressive rock bands such as Pink Floyd and Genesis, but the band's music also incorporates elements of folk and classical music, as well as French-Canadian and Québécois cultural influences. The band's lyrics are often poetic and philosophical, and deal with themes such as love, nature, and spirituality.

 Despite their critical acclaim and popularity in Quebec, Harmonium never achieved mainstream success outside of their home province. The band disbanded in 1978, but their music continues to be celebrated and influential to this day. In 2019, the band was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame.