Minimum Vital is a French progressive rock band formed in the late 1980s by brothers Thierry and Jean-Luc Payssan. Hailing from the Bordeaux region, they’ve carved out a unique niche blending Celtic, medieval, and folk influences with intricate rock instrumentation, often featuring hurdy-gurdy, mandolin, and symphonic keyboards alongside electric guitars. Their sound – sometimes dubbed "Prog Médiéval" – evokes misty Breton coastlines and Renaissance fairs with a modern prog twist, creating a vibe that’s both ancient and forward-thinking.
The band has maintained a loyal following through albums like *Envol Triangles - Les Saisons Marines* and *La Source*, showcasing their signature mix of complex compositions and pastoral atmosphere. Recent releases like *Live Minnuendö* and *Air Caravan'* prove they’ve kept their eclectic spirit alive, continuing to fuse poetic French lyrics with jazz-inflected rhythms and ethereal harmonies. While never achieving mainstream fame, Minimum Vital remains a cult favorite among prog enthusiasts who dig their whimsical, time-traveling soundscapes.
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