Paraphrenia Praecox

Description

Formed in 1972, Schizo was a French heavy rock band that paved the way for the sonic experiments of pioneers Heldon. Composed of Richard Pinhas (guitar and synth), Pierrot Roussel (bass), Patrick Gauthier (synth), Coco Roussel (drums), and Olivier Pamela (vocals), the band was short-lived, but their recordings captured a raw and innovative energy. Their first single, "Schizo (And The Little Girl)" / "Paraphrenia Praecox," released on the SFP label, blends distorted guitars, intense wah-wah, and dissonant electronic soundscapes, oscillating between abrasive post-psychedelia and hypnotic groove. Their second single, released on Pinhas's Disjuncta label, brought this brief adventure to an end. Compared to Heldon's more complex and electronic textures, Schizo's music on this last single is characterized by a more primitive and instinctive power, reflecting a more direct and raw approach to experimental rock. This work remains a masterpiece in the history of French underground rock, laying the foundations for a sound that would profoundly influence future scenes. Ancient Grease Records, an archival label specializing in reissuing 70s heavy rock and psych rarities, recently undertook the remastering of these tracks. Accompanied by rich visual content and in-depth liner notes, this reissue celebrates a little-known part of underground music, offering both collectors and newcomers a fascinating dive into this daring era.