The Concerts in China 1982

Concerts in China Album

Concerts in China is a live album by Jean-Michel Jarre, released in 1982. This album follows the groundbreaking success of his earlier works and captures the historic concerts he held in China, marking one of the first large-scale Western music events in the country.

For the 40th anniversary, Jarre remastered this album and re-released it on CD, double vinyl with a special poster, and digitally as well.

The album consists of a collection of tracks performed during these groundbreaking concerts, featuring notable pieces such as “Oxygene” and “Equinoxe.” Each performance was designed to create an immersive experience, showcasing the unique atmosphere of the locations in which they were held. The seamless transitions between tracks reflect Jarre’s expertise in blending different musical themes and styles.

Famous Album Cover

The album cover, designed by Jean-Michel Jarre himself, features striking visuals that reflect the essence of the concerts and the cultural significance of the performances. It captures the energy and excitement of the live events, inviting listeners to experience the music visually as well.

The Concerts in China Album Cover

East and West

The overarching theme of Concerts in China centers on cultural exchange and the impact of music as a universal language. It highlights the connection between technology and humanity, emphasizing the role of music in bridging cultural divides. The concerts not only celebrated electronic music but also served as a testament to the evolving relationship between the East and West.

Musically, the album is characterized by its rich tapestry of synthesizer sounds, complex rhythms, and engaging melodies. Jarre’s innovative use of technology is evident in the way he blends traditional electronic music with elements inspired by Chinese culture, creating a unique sonic landscape that transports listeners to a different world.

Return to China: 2004 Forbidden City

Following his groundbreaking 1981 performances, Jean-Michel Jarre returned to China in 2004 to recreate the magic with a new set of concerts, captured in the Jarre in China: Forbidden City album. This release expands on the original concept, combining his signature electronic sound with stunning live visuals, and further highlights the fusion of Eastern and Western musical traditions. You can explore the full details of this historic 2004 performance on the Jarre in China Forbidden City page.

Concerts in China Album Tracklist

Here is the tracklist for The Concerts in China, along with the durations for each piece:

1. The Overture – 4:47
2. Arpegiator – 6:51
3. Equinoxe IV – 7:39
4. Fishing Junks At Sunset – 9:35
5. Band In The Rain – 1:23
6. Equinoxe VII – 9:52
7. Orient Express – 4:21
8. Magnetic Fields I – 0:28
9. Magnetic Fields III – 3:48
10. Magnetic Fields IV – 6:43
11. Laser Harp – 3:26
12. Night In Shanghai – 7:01
13. The Last Rumba – 2:03
14. Magnetic Fields II – 6:19
15. Souvenir Of China – 4:00

Total length: 78:59

Discover the album on Spotify and YouTube

This collection showcases a blend of Jarre’s most iconic tracks, adapted for the live concert setting in China.

Instruments Used on the Album Concerts in China

For The Concerts in China, Jean-Michel Jarre utilized a variety of electronic instruments and synthesizers to create his signature sound. Here are some of the key instruments he used during the concerts and in the production of the album:

• Moog Synthesizers: Jarre frequently used Moog synthesizers, which are known for their rich, warm tones and versatility in creating various sounds.
• ARP 2600: This semi-modular synthesizer was popular for its ability to create complex sounds and was a staple in Jarre’s setups.
• Roland TR-808 Drum Machine: The TR-808 is famous for its distinctive sounds, particularly its bass drum, which became iconic in electronic music.
• EMS Synthi AKS: This portable synthesizer was known for its unique capabilities, including a built-in sequencer and effects.
• Yamaha CS-80: A legendary synthesizer, the CS-80 is known for its expressive sounds and polyphony, making it suitable for lush pads and leads.
• Sequential Circuits Prophet-5: One of the first programmable polyphonic synthesizers, it was used for its rich sounds and ability to store presets.
• Digital Sampling: Jarre also incorporated digital sampling technology, allowing him to use recorded sounds and manipulate them in real-time.
• Piano and Percussion Instruments: While primarily known for his electronic music, Jarre occasionally included acoustic instruments to add depth to his performances.

Curious about the iconic instruments Jarre has used?
Visit the Instruments page.

Studio Setting

These instruments contributed to the innovative soundscapes that defined Concerts in China, allowing Jarre to blend traditional electronic elements with unique textures and rhythms.

The Impact and Legacy of Concerts in China

Concerts in China is regarded as a pivotal work in Jean-Michel Jarre’s discography, showcasing his ability to blend performance and technology while promoting cultural understanding. The album remains influential, celebrated for its innovative sound and the groundbreaking nature of the concerts it represents.

Want to explore all of Jean-Michel Jarre’s albums?
Visit the discography page.

Discover more on the Jean-Michel Jarre Homepage or:

• Jean-Michel Jarre Music Page
• JMJ Instruments Page
• Biography of Jean-Michel Jarre

The Concerts in China