RARA AVIS INTERRIS was founded in Granville, France in 1997 to create a piece music that would last approximately 25 minutes. This kind of music could be used as a soundtrack for a firework that took place in the area. The members were inspired by Robert Wyatt, Pink Floyd, King Crimson and other heavy rock artists. They realized that they shared a common passion for playing progressive rock with pop, hardrock and touches of French music. Soon, the decision was made to write more songs in order to perform a full concert. RARA AVIS IN TERRIS performed in all local pubs before being offered more exciting dates such as the ‘Tansmusicales” in Rennes. With their participation at many local festivals, they gained the reputation of being the only band in northern France that offered a 70’s style of prog rock with flair pants, vintage instruments and long hair. One day drummer Sebastien Bourree sent an audio tape to a cousin from Italy, who was busy finding bands for Mellow Records. They were granted a contract to record one album free of charge in 1999. However, they don’t have any other rights as they don’t know how many copies they sold. The band then went to Italy for two weeks of mixing and recording around Christmas 1999. The final title was recorded on New Year’s Eve just before the band went to Venice to celebrate St Marco’s Place’s new century. Mastering was completed on the 1st of January 2000, making the record the first official one in the current century. RARA AVIS IN TERRIS continued to play live almost every weekend to promote their album. It became more difficult for them as they had to also work to make a living. The lack of experience and financial difficulties meant that plans to start a recording studio were abandoned. As a result, a new album was not produced. The band eventually broke up after a period of trouble and stagnation. Although some of the original members now live on the other side, they are still close friends. They all play in different bands and work on their own projects at home. (based on informations provided by Rodolphe Cloitre,progarchives.com) band members; Sebastien Bouree / drums, percussion Willy Mercier / guitar, vocals Rodolphe Cloitre / lead guitar, vocals Julien Prevot / saxophone, percussion, flute, keyboards Yvan Le Guennec / bass