(13 April 2003) The most recent album by Luc Marianni was recorded underthe moniker 'Seltae Beat' and is a progressive epic entitled Up And Down (Musea (France) FGBG 4185.AR,1996). Although released as far back as 1996, it is atimeless work with as much appeal today as when originallyreleased. A keen Renaissance Mk I and Yardbirds fan, Luc also writes of their work in today's music media.

Seltae Beat is fronted by the lovely Caroline Crozat astheir lead vocalist. In addition to writing credits thathe shares with Paul Putti, Marianni provides a significantcontribution as the outfit's keyboard player. The lineupis completed by Pascal Mulot (bass), Erci Cougand (drums),Gilles Fegeant (guitar), Patrick Rondat (guitar), and DenisVendermeersch (acoustic guitar). Up And Down remarkablyclocks in at precisely one hour--60 minutes exactly!

Up And Down is a classic progresive concept albumwith a story that plays out on an oil rig in the future. Gently arranged the lyrics alternate between several languageswith the majority of the sung parts presented in English. Further information on the storyline has been covered inearlier reviews in both printed and internet media. Whilethe individual songs are appealing, it is the collectionof progressive material and stunning vocals that makes thealbum most appealing.

Influences are multi-faceted but rooted in artists' prior influences. Caroline Crozat is a superb vocalist,with power and emotional delivery reminiscent of Tracy itchings but with a broader and more crystalline rangethat some might equate to Annie Haslam at times. Layered vocal harmonies add texture in chorus structures of several of the songs. While the material is clearlyprogressive with rocking bits and tempo changes thatone expects, jazz influences both in songwriting andinstrumental construction.

As the 1990s came to a conclusion progressive musicbegan to include more significant metal edges. Mariannitook advantage of this through contributions of Patric Rondatwho is also known for is for metal work. But on Up AndDown, this only emerges in spots; it never dominates.The lush keyboard textures, more reminscent of classicprogressive bands are more pronounced with guitar workshining in the solos and echoing melody traditionally.A variety of musically derived sound effects contributeto the delivery of the storyline.

Highlights of the album clearly are the writing and keyboard contributions of Luc Marianni and the stunning vocal work of Caroline Crozat. Her soaring evocative French-accented voice is immediately appealing. Thematerial's recurring musical themes make the album workas a whole--with repeated listens these become evenmore pronounced and enjoyable. We especially enjoyedthe album's production and treatment of Caroline'svocals which ride atop the instrumentals and are neveroutweighed by them. The vocalise parts only furtherillustrate her virtuousity.

Read further reviews, listen to soundbites and orderthe album at amazon.comhere. While Caroline Crozat has remained active musically (our feature on the singer is planned for publication during 2003) since the Up And Down album with a variety of projects, our curiousity why further albums by Luc Marianni's Seltae Beat did not emerge remains. Clearly worth a trans-Atlantic journey, this album is a must listen!