Oxygene 3 Trilogy

Oxygene 3

Oxygene 3 is the sixteenth studio album by Jean-Michel Jarre, released in 2016. It serves as the third part of the iconic Oxygène series, which began with his breakthrough album Oxygene in 1976. Like its predecessors, Oxygene 3 is a continuation of Jarre’s exploration of electronic music, offering immersive and atmospheric soundscapes.

The album consists of seven tracks, titled Oxygene, Pt. 14 through Oxygene, Pt. 20, which seamlessly blend into each other to create a cohesive auditory journey. The central theme of Oxygene 3 revolves around the passage of time and the ongoing evolution of both the planet and electronic music. It reflects on environmental themes while presenting a futuristic sound that is both nostalgic and forward-looking.

• Oxygene 1 – 1976
• Oxygene 2 – 1997

– Oxygene 3 –

The Experience

Jarre uses a combination of modern synthesizers and classic analog instruments to create the album’s distinctive sound. The music is characterized by ethereal melodies, evolving textures, and a minimalist approach that allows the listener to become fully immersed in its atmospheric layers. This creates an experience that feels simultaneously expansive and intimate, capturing the essence of Jarre’s earlier work while showcasing his ability to innovate.

Album Cover Oxygene 3

The album cover, like the previous Oxygene albums, was designed by Michel Granger, featuring the iconic skull imagery that has become synonymous with the series. The artwork complements the album’s themes of life, death, and the fragile balance of nature.

Oxygene 3 Tracklist

Here is the tracklist and playing time for the album: Oxygene 3

1. Oxygene, Pt. 14 – 05:25
2. Oxygene, Pt. 15 – 06:41
3. Oxygene, Pt. 16 – 06:50
4. Oxygene, Pt. 17 – 04:20
5. Oxygene, Pt. 18 – 02:36
6. Oxygene, Pt. 19 – 04:09
7. Oxygene, Pt. 20 – 07:50

Total length: 39:51

Discover the album on Spotify and YouTube

Released in 2016, Oxygene 3 completes the Oxygene trilogy, maintaining its signature ambient and electronic soundscapes while offering a modern twist.

Oxygene 3 Used Instruments

For Oxygene 3, Jean-Michel Jarre used a mix of vintage analog synthesizers and modern equipment to capture the spirit of the original Oxygene album while updating it with contemporary sounds. Some of the instruments he used include:

• ARP 2600 – A semi-modular analog synthesizer, known for its rich sound and flexibility.
• EMS VCS3 – A modular synth that has been a staple in Jarre’s work, used for its unique sound modulation capabilities.
• Moog Sub 37 – A modern analog synthesizer, used for deep basses and leads.
• Yamaha CS-80 – A legendary polyphonic synthesizer known for its expressive sounds.
• Elektron Analog Rytm – A drum machine that combines analog percussion with modern sequencing capabilities.
• Roland JD-XA – A hybrid synth combining analog warmth with digital clarity.
• Digisequencer – A digital sequencer used to create rhythmic patterns and complex sequences.
• Korg Mini Kaoss Pad – A touchpad-based effects processor, adding real-time effects to the sound.

Jarre combined these classic and modern instruments to retain the timeless essence of Oxygene while giving Oxygene 3 a fresh, contemporary edge.

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

– Studio Setting –

A Fitting Conclusion to the Oxygene Trilogy

Oxygene 3 has been praised as a fitting conclusion to the Oxygene trilogy, maintaining the legacy of the original while offering a fresh take on the timeless themes explored in Jarre’s music. It stands as a modern masterpiece in electronic music, bridging the past and the future with its evocative soundscapes and visionary concept.

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

– Oxygene 3 –