Non Fiction is the second album from French guitarist and former member of Clearlight, originally recorded in 1979 and now being re-released by Musea. Boule is one of the few players from the European prog scene who made the "glissando" guitar style noteworthy, along with Gong's Steve Hillage and Be Bop Deluxe's Bill Nelson. These players favored a speedy, almost liquid tone, which was the highlight of their respected bands.
Despite Boule's talents, much of Non Fiction is a mixed bag. Sure, there are lots of biting guitar solos throughout, as on the spacey "Viva Da New Sound", which also features the female vocals of Geraldine Andre. Even "Synthetic Lover", a futuristic take on Clearlight's sound, has some interesting tones and loads of keyboards from Jean-Pierre Thirault and Yves Lannes. However, many of the tracks take on a funky, almost disco vibe, which isn't necessarily bad, but not what you would expect from this legendary prog guitarist. "Chance", as well as the title track, feature horns, and funky disco beats, while Boule glides his guitar work over the mix. If nothing else, there is a lot of variety here, and the guitarist should be commended for trying something different.
With prog on the outs in the late 70's, and the rise of disco and punk bursting at the seams, it's no surprise that many progressive acts chose more commercial waters as the decade came to a close. Christian Boule, who cut his teeth on many albums of complex yet atmospheric space and art rock , turned in a more contemporary platter with Non Fiction. Worth seeking out for die-hards, but proceed with caution for the average progger.
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