One Shot

One Shot

One Shot is a French jazz and progressive rock group active from 1998. The name is also used by other acts, but this group is the French ensemble associated with jazz-rock, prog rock, fusion and Zeuhl influences.

Formation and members

The group is formed by bassist Philippe Bussonnet and keyboardist Emmanuel Borghi, both known for work with Magma; Borghi is also associated with Offering and Christian Vander Trio. The lineup also includes guitarist James Mac Gaw and drummer Daniel Jeand’Heur. In addition, the project includes or features Faf Larage, Jalane, Taïro, Nuttea, Disiz La Peste and Vasquez Lusi.

Background and style

One Shot is formed in France and is associated with a rock-jazz-progressive approach that places emphasis on the rock side of the music. Its sound combines Zeuhl with electric Miles Davis-style textures, including organ and Fender Rhodes, and it also draws on jazz-rock and progressive rock. The group’s first release is described as presenting classic jazz-rock with strong influences from the Mahavishnu Orchestra, while later work develops into longer instrumental pieces with a closer connection to Magma and a touch of King Crimson.

Recording and releases

The project records its first album live in one day. Its discography includes One Shot (1999), Vendredi 13 (2001), Ewaz Vader (2006) and Dark Shot (2008). Vendredi 13 is a live recording, and Ewaz Vader consists of four long compositions with a harder edge that sometimes approaches metal.

Related context

One Shot is linked to the soundtrack of the French film Taxi 2, which it records with the involvement of French band IAM. The group is sometimes discussed alongside other acts using the same name, including a Serbian hip hop group from Niš, but this French ensemble is the jazz-prog band from France.