Special Priced Jean-Michel Jarre Bundle - Equinoxe and Concerts in China Display Models *FREE UK POSTAGE*

Released in 1978, Equinoxe was the fourth studio album by French electronic musician Jean-Michel Jarre. Following the massive success of Oxygene, this record further established his signature use of sweeping analogue synthesisers and intricate melodic sequencing. The striking cover art was created by the French artist Michel Granger, whose original painting was selected to represent the atmospheric themes of the album.

The production of the record took place at Jarre's private studio between January and August 1978. During these sessions, he relied heavily on the Matrisequencer 250, a bespoke piece of hardware designed by his collaborator Michel Geiss. This equipment allowed for the complex, rhythmic basslines that became a hallmark of the release. By layering instruments such as the ARP 2600, the EMS VCS 3, and the Yamaha CS-60, the composer constructed a dense, textured soundscape that pushed the boundaries of contemporary recording techniques.

Upon release, Equinoxe was met with significant commercial success, charting highly across Europe and reaching number 11 in the UK Albums Chart. Its influence extended far beyond initial record sales, providing a structural template for future ambient, trance, and electronic producers. The cultural impact of the album was firmly cemented in 1979 when Jarre performed the music at a free open-air concert at the Place de la Concorde in Paris, drawing a record-breaking crowd of over one million spectators and proving the viability of electronic music on a massive scale.

The artwork famously depicts an endless, stepped audience of identical, suited figures staring back at the viewer through binoculars. These enigmatic characters, often referred to as the Watchers, perfectly complemented the futuristic tone of the music. The surreal imagery became an enduring symbol of late 1970s electronic music and a defining piece of vinyl artwork.

This display piece isolates one of the distinct binocular wielding figures from the classic cover, bringing the two dimensional painting into a tangible format. It serves as a highly recognisable emblem for fans of progressive electronic music and analogue synthesis. The figure provides a straightforward physical tribute to a landmark record, making it a fitting addition to a studio desk, a listening room, or alongside a dedicated record collection.

Concerts in China Recorded during Jarre’s groundbreaking 1981 performances in Beijing and Shanghai, it was the first time a Western musician performed in post-Mao China, drawing over 120,000 attendees across five concerts. Released as a double LP by Disques Dreyfus, the album blends live recordings with studio tracks, showcasing Jarre’s pioneering synth work and his ability to bridge cultures through music. Tracks like “Magnetic Fields” and “Arpegiator” resonated with global audiences, cementing Jarre’s role as a trailblazer in electronic soundscapes.

Jean-Michel Jarre, a French composer and producer, orchestrated the concerts as a cultural exchange, working closely with Chinese authorities to bring his elaborate setup—including the iconic Fairlight CMI synthesizer—to the People’s Republic. Jarre’s vision was to merge his futuristic sound with traditional Chinese instruments, like the erhu and pipa, creating a dialogue between East and West. The album’s cover, designed by Kate Stephens, reflects this fusion, drawing inspiration from Chinese opera masks to symbolize the theatricality of the event. Jarre’s efforts not only introduced electronic music to a new audience but also opened doors for Western artists in China, leaving a lasting cultural legacy.

The album itself weaves a narrative of the concerts, balancing ambient textures with rhythmic energy. Jarre included new compositions like “Orient Express,” inspired by his journey, alongside reimagined versions of earlier works, such as “Oxygène Part II.” The live tracks capture the crowd’s awe, while studio additions like “Fishing Junks at Sunset” highlight the blend of synthetic and traditional sounds, reflecting Jarre’s immersive approach. The record’s 79-minute runtime offers a sonic journey that mirrors the scale of the concerts, inviting listeners into a moment of historical significance.

Perfect for electronic music fans, vinyl collectors, or those fascinated by cultural milestones, this piece connects you to the legacy of The Concerts in China and Jarre’s pioneering vision, offering a nostalgic link to a transformative era in music history. 

Each Approx 5" tall with a unique textured surface, these 3D printed models are made from high-quality, recyclable PLA, both lightweight and durable, making them ideal display pieces

Please note that as each piece is made to order, there may be slight variations in colour and finish.

Customisation Options:
We're happy to accommodate any special requests or customisations you may have in mind. Please don't hesitate to contact us with your ideas.

Free Postage within the UK.