HARMONIUM - LES CINQ SAISONS / SI ON AVAIT BESOIN D'UNE CINQUIÈME SAISON - FOC 12" LP VINYL Album

"Les Cinq Saisons / Si on avait besoin d'une cinquième saison" is the second album by Quebec band Harmonium, released in 1975. The album marked a departure from the folk rock sound of the band's self-titled debut album towards a unique progressive rock sound, and also marked the growth of the band, as members Serge Fiori, Michel Normandeau and Louis Valois were joined by Pierre Daigneault and Serge Locat.

Album Description & Collectors information:

In the vibrant world of music, there are rare moments when an album transcends the boundaries of time and becomes a timeless masterpiece. Such is the case with "Harmonium - Les Cinq Saisons / Si on avait besoin d'une cinquième saison", a groundbreaking LP vinyl album released in 1975. This musical gem, created by the Canadian progressive rock band Harmonium, takes listeners on an extraordinary journey of emotions and sonic exploration. With its poetic lyrics, intricate melodies, and innovative arrangements, this album has left an indelible mark on the music industry and the hearts of its listeners.

From the moment the needle touches the grooves of the vinyl record, an enchanting soundscape unfolds. The album's second track, "Dixie", immediately captures attention with its delicate piano melody, gradually building up to a crescendo of harmonious guitars and ethereal vocals. The seamless fusion of acoustic and electric instruments creates a lush and captivating sonic tapestry that accompanies the listener throughout the album.

One of the album's distinguishing features is its rich lyrical content, beautifully woven together by the poetic genius of lead vocalist and songwriter, Serge Fiori. The songs delve into profound themes of nature, love, and introspection, taking the listener on an introspective journey through the seasons. Each track tells a story, evoking vivid imagery and provoking contemplation. Whether it is the introspective musings in "En pleine face" or the poignant reflections on time in "Depuis l'automne", the lyrical depth of the album is awe-inspiring.

The album's emotional resonance lies in its ability to evoke a range of feelings within the listener. The hauntingly beautiful ballad, "Vert", with its melancholic melodies and introspective lyrics, captures a sense of longing and nostalgia. Conversely, "Histoires sans paroles" ignites a feeling of joy and celebration, with its infectious rhythm and uplifting melodies. Each song has a distinct emotional hue, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in a multitude of moods and experiences.

Since its release, "Harmonium - Les Cinq Saisons / Si on avait besoin d'une cinquième saison" has enjoyed immense critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. The album's influence on subsequent generations of musicians is undeniable. It served as a catalyst for the development of Quebec's progressive rock scene, inspiring countless artists to explore new musical horizons. Moreover, its enduring popularity has solidified its status as a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate listeners to this day.

Gatefold (FOC) cover design with artwork / photos on the inside cover pages

Music Genre:

Canadian Prog Rock

Album Production Information:

The album: "HARMONIUM - Les Cinq Saisons / Si on avait besoin d'une cinquième saison - FOC" was produced by: Harmonium and Peter Burns, R.A. (Bob) Martin

Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Peter Burns

This album was recorded at: Studio Six, Montreal 1975

Album cover Illustrations: Louis-Pierre Bougie

Record Label Information:

Solid Light Green Coloured Record Label with Catalognr: GAMMA 8.517

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 280 gram

Year & Country:

1975 Made in France

Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: HARMONIUM - Les Cinq Saisons / Si on avait besoin d'une cinquième saison - FOC

Serge Fiori – guitar, lead vocals
Michel Normandeau – guitar, vocals
Louis Valois – bass guitar, electric piano
Pierre Daigneault – flutes, clarinets
Serge Locat – keyboards

Complete Track-listing of the album "HARMONIUM - Les Cinq Saisons / Si on avait besoin d'une cinquième saison - FOC"

The detailed tracklist of this record "HARMONIUM - Les Cinq Saisons / Si on avait besoin d'une cinquième saison - FOC" is:

"Vert" (Michel Normandeau, Serge Fiori) – 5:35

"Dixie" (Serge Fiori) – 3:26

"Depuis l'automne" (Serge Fiori, Michel Normandeau) – 10:28

"En pleine face" (Serge Fiori) – 4:50

"Histoires sans paroles" (Serge Fiori) – 17:12

Front Cover Photo Of HARMONIUM Les Cinq Saisons / Si On Avait Besoin D'une Cinquième Saison Gatefold 12" LP VINYL

HARMONIUM Les Cinq Saisons / Si On Avait Besoin D'une Cinquième Saison Gatefold 12" LP VINYL front cover https://vinyl-records.nl

Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

Photo Of The Back Cover HARMONIUM Les Cinq Saisons / Si On Avait Besoin D'une Cinquième Saison Gatefold 12" LP VINYL

HARMONIUM Les Cinq Saisons / Si On Avait Besoin D'une Cinquième Saison Gatefold 12" LP VINYL inner gatefold cover

Photo One Of The Inner Gatefold HARMONIUM Les Cinq Saisons / Si On Avait Besoin D'une Cinquième Saison Gatefold 12" LP VINYL

Photo Two Of The Inner Gatefold HARMONIUM Les Cinq Saisons / Si On Avait Besoin D'une Cinquième Saison Gatefold 12" LP VINYL

Close up of Side One record's label HARMONIUM Les Cinq Saisons / Si On Avait Besoin D'une Cinquième Saison Gatefold 12" LP VINYL

"Les Cinq Saisons" Light Greem Colour GAMMA Record Label Details: GAMMA Records 8-517, SACEM / SDRM , Made in France

Side Two Close up of record's label HARMONIUM Les Cinq Saisons / Si On Avait Besoin D'une Cinquième Saison Gatefold 12" LP VINYL

Index of HARMONIUM Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery

Harmonium is a Canadian progressive rock band that is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential bands in the history of Canadian music. Their music is characterized by its intricate and melodic arrangements, lush harmonies, and poetic lyrics. While the band never achieved mainstream success outside of Quebec, their music continues to be celebrated and influential to this day.

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.