Oxygene is the third studio album by French electronic musician Jean Michel Jarre, released in December 1976. It is widely regarded as one of the most influential and pioneering albums in the history of electronic music, featuring six atmospheric tracks that blend synthesizers, organs, drums, and effects.
The album was recorded in Jarre's home studio using a variety of analog equipment, such as the EMS VCS 3, ARP 2600, and RMI Harmonic Synthesizer. Jarre composed and performed all the parts himself, layering them with tape loops and overdubs. The album was originally released as OxygÃne on Disques Dreyfus, a French independent label, and later reissued as Oxygene on Polydor Records.
Oxygene was a commercial and critical success, selling over 15 million copies worldwide and receiving positive reviews from critics. It was also a breakthrough for Jarre in the international market, especially in the UK, where it reached number 2 on the charts and stayed in the top 20 for over a year. The album spawned three singles: "OxygÃne Part IV", "OxygÃne Part II", and "OxygÃne Part VI".
Oxygene is considered a landmark in the genre of ambient music, as well as a precursor to new age and techno music. It has influenced many artists, such as Vangelis, Brian Eno, Kraftwerk, Tangerine Dream, Depeche Mode, Moby, and Daft Punk. The album has also been used in various films, television shows, video games, and commercials.
In 1997, Jarre released a sequel to Oxygene, titled Oxygene 7-13, which continued the musical themes of the original album. In 2007, he released a new version of Oxygene, titled Oxygene: New Master Recording, which featured updated sounds and arrangements. In 2016, he released a third installment of Oxygene, titled Oxygene 3, which coincided with the 40th anniversary of the original album.
If you are interested in listening to Oxygene by Jean Michel Jarre, you can download the full album zip file from one of these sources:
Oxygene is not only a musical masterpiece, but also a visual one. The album cover, designed by Michel Granger, depicts a human skull covered by a globe of green foliage, symbolizing the fragility of life and the importance of environmental protection. The cover has become iconic and has been replicated and parodied by many artists and media outlets.
Jarre also created a spectacular live show to accompany Oxygene, featuring lasers, projections, fireworks, and giant inflatable structures. He performed the album in various locations around the world, such as the Place de la Concorde in Paris, the Houston skyline in Texas, and the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. He also performed the album in outer space, when he played "OxygÃne Part IV" for the astronauts on board the Mir space station in 1997.
Oxygene is more than just an album, it is a cultural phenomenon that has transcended time and space. It is a testament to Jarre's vision and creativity, as well as his passion for music and humanity. It is an album that has inspired generations of listeners and musicians, and that continues to resonate with today's world.
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