Blais, Jacques - Jacques Blais & Fantasia

Tracks

Side 1

		Track Name	Length
	1	Ligne lente
	2	Est-ce la musique?
	3	Chante et danse
	4	Pour etre deux

Side 2

		Track Name	Length
	1	Vent d'aout
	2	Mieux vaut tard que jamais
	3	J't'aime aen pareil
	4	Les monde de mes reves

Photos

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Information/Write-up

Following the progressive and atmospheric Thèmes (1975), Jacques Blais' second album, Jacques Blais & Fantasia (1977), takes a noticeable shift in direction. With a revamped backing band featuring Sylvain Coutu (Pollen) on drums, Daniel Barbe (Eclipse) on keyboards and synthesizer, and Michael Holden on bass, the album leans into a more commercial sound, incorporating elements of funk, jazz, and even disco influences.

The album still retains flashes of Blais' signature guitar work, with expressive solos and fluid melodies, but the overall composition moves away from the progressive rock sensibilities of his debut. While there are strong performances—particularly in the rhythm section, where Holden’s bass work shines—this shift in style makes Fantasia less essential for dedicated progressive rock fans. Instead, it may appeal more to listeners who appreciate the jazz-funk fusion that was becoming popular in the late 1970s.

Recorded at Studio Six and Studio Listen in Montreal, the album was produced by Michel Normandeau (Harmonium) and engineered by Quentin Meek. Despite the stylistic departure, it remains a well-produced and polished record, showcasing Blais' versatility as a musician.

While Jacques Blais & Fantasia may not hold the same status as Thèmes, it remains a noteworthy album for those interested in the evolution of Quebec’s progressive and fusion scenes. Fans of Blais’ guitar work will still find moments to appreciate, even if the overall approach is more groove-oriented than exploratory.
-Robert Williston

Jacques Blais: vocals, electric guitar, acoustic guitar
Michael Holden: bass
Sylvain Coutu: drums, percussion
Daniel Barbe: synthesizer

Written, music, and arrangements, and art direction by Jacques Blais
Produced by Michel Normandeau
Engineered by Quentin Meek
Management: Paul Lévesque

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