Founded in 1969 by guitarist Frank Bornemann, the band has endured several line-up changes, with Bornemann being the only consistent member of the group. In the 1980s, after a series of major splits (like in 1984 although reformed in 1988) in the group, Bornemann pursued a more commercial direction. Despite attracting a large following, the band never gained popularity in the United States.
However, in later years, former members of the band re-joined, and in 1998 fans delighted in hearing Ocean 2, a return to the classic symphonic progressive genre that the band was so well known for. A sequel to the 1977's original, it is commonly thought among fans that it successfully recaptures the spirit of the band, and is a worthy follow-up to the much beloved classic.
Of the band's numerous records, fans generally consider Inside, Floating, Dawn, Ocean, Silent Cries & Mighty Echoes, Planets and Ocean 2 to be the superior albums.
Despite their nationality, the band is not generally considered krautrock due to their sound which has much more in common with English progressive groups such as Pink Floyd and Yes.
In 2009 after a decade of hiatus Frank Bornemann released a DVD celebrating their 40th anniversary and a new album called Visionairy.
In the following period he worked on a concept double album about the life of the Maid of Orleans, Jeanne d'Arc. The album The Vision, the Sword and the Pyre, Pt. 1 was released in 2017, followed by The Vision, the Sword and the Pyre, Pt. 2 in 2019.
Current Line-up:
Frank Bornemann
Klaus-Peter Matziol
Hannes Arkona
Hannes Folberth
Bodo Schopf
The Bells Of Notre Dame
Eloy Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
But it still carries on, I don't know what to think it's unreal:
The world seems to start outside of my body, I don't know what I feel.
In these four hallowed walls the peal of the bells remind me
Of my journey through time but my thoughts still remain with Jeanne:
I wish she were with me, I need her here
The opening lines of Eloy's song "The Bells of Notre Dame" reflect the singer's sense of disillusionment and confusion. The end of a dream, or perhaps the failure to achieve a long-held goal or aspiration, has left him feeling uncertain and disoriented. The fact that the world seems to start "outside of my body" suggests a feeling of detachment or disconnection from reality, while the line "I don't know what I feel" underscores his emotional turmoil. The reference to "these four hallowed walls" suggests that the singer is in a place of worship, which is reinforced by the sound of pealing bells that echo through the song's opening bars. This may suggest that the singer is seeking solace or guidance in his spiritual faith, but he remains troubled by thoughts of a woman named Jeanne. The line "But my thoughts still remain with Jeanne: I wish she were with me, I need her here" suggests that the singer is mourning the loss of a relationship, or perhaps feels as though he cannot move on without the presence of this person in his life.
Overall, the lyrics to "The Bells of Notre Dame" suggest a complex mix of emotions, including confusion, disillusionment, and longing. Through the use of vivid imagery and evocative language, the song captures the sense of loss and disconnection that can arise in the wake of personal turmoil or hardship. At the same time, the spiritual themes that run throughout the song hint at the possibility of redemption or healing, offering a message of hope to anyone facing similar struggles.
Line by Line Meaning
It seems like a dream that's come to an end
The experience feels like a fleeting, unreal dream that has now ceased.
But it still carries on, I don't know what to think it's unreal
Despite the dreamlike quality of the experience, it continues to unfold without clear understanding.
The world seems to start outside of my body, I don't know what I feel.
The sense of self seems to dissolve and surroundings blur, leading to confusion and uncertainty.
In these four hallowed walls the peal of the bells remind me
Inside this sacred space, the ringing bells evoke memories and emotions.
Of my journey through time but my thoughts still remain with Jeanne
The bells trigger thoughts of past experiences, yet the focus remains on missing someone dear.
I wish she were with me, I need her here
There is a strong desire for the presence of another, whose company is deeply missed and longed for.
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Manfred Wieczorke, Frank Bornemann, Gordon Bennit
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind