ERA is a musical project by French composer, keyboardist, and producer Eric Lévi, created in 1996. ERA blends elements of spiritual, classical, and pop music with modern electronic rhythms, crafting a unique atmosphere of mysticism, harmony, and timelessness. The project is renowned for its ethereal choral vocals, the use of a fictional language reminiscent of Latin, and themes inspired by medieval culture, philosophy, and faith. ERA has become one of the most successful French musical projects of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Creator: Eric Lévi
Éric Jacques Lévi was born on December 23, 1955, in Paris, France. He began his career in the 1970s as a keyboardist and co-founder of the French hard rock band Shakin’ Street, which toured with AC/DC and Blue Öyster Cult. In the 1980s, Lévi shifted to composing and became known for his film music. One of his most celebrated works is the soundtrack for the cult French comedy Les Visiteurs (1993). The success of this score inspired him to create a project that would unite cinematic grandeur with spiritual music — thus, ERA was born.
The Birth of ERA
ERA emerged in 1996 as an attempt to merge neoclassical music, ethnic soundscapes, and pop rock into a single concept. Eric Lévi set out to compose music free from any specific language but filled with emotions understandable to all. This led to the creation of ERA’s fictional language — reminiscent of ecclesiastical Latin, sounding sacred and universal.
The debut album Era (1996) was an international success. Its lead single, “Ameno”, became one of the most recognizable songs of the late 20th century, topping charts in over 15 countries and later reissued in multiple remastered and remixed versions throughout the 2010s and 2020s.
Musical Style
ERA’s sound is a synthesis of the ancient and the modern, blending:
- Choral vocals — rich male and female harmonies evoking liturgical chants.
- Synthesizers and guitar — adding a contemporary dynamic edge.
- A fictional language — combining Latin and Old French elements, symbolizing a spiritual origin beyond time and culture.
- Thematic symbolism — motifs of chivalry, faith, the struggle between light and darkness, rebirth, and eternity.
Main Albums
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Era (1996) — debut album featuring the iconic hit “Ameno”, along with “Enae Volare Mezzo”, “Mother”, and “Avemano”. The record went platinum in several European and Latin American countries.
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Era 2 (2000) — continued the concept with hits like “Divano”, “The Mass”, and “Looking for Something”. This album had a more cinematic sound and expanded choral arrangements.
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The Mass (2003) — a thematic album inspired by Gregorian chants and the Catholic Mass. Its title track became widely used in TV and advertising.
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Reborn (2008) — a reinvention of ERA’s early sound with modern electronic influences. Key tracks: “Reborn”, “Sinfoni Deo”, and “Prayers”.
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Classics (2009) — reinterpretations of classical works by Beethoven, Mozart, and Bach in the signature ERA style, showcasing a fusion of academic and sacred music.
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The 7th Sword (2017) — a return to ERA’s roots with a philosophical concept centered on inner strength and light. Includes “7 Seconds”, “Arielle”, and “Ameno Amapiano Remix” (whose 2020 version went viral on TikTok).
Modern Era (2020–2025)
In the 2020s, ERA experienced a renaissance thanks to digital platforms. The track “Ameno (Dorime)” became a viral meme, re-entering the Spotify and Shazam charts. Eric Lévi released remastered editions of classic albums and is preparing a special anniversary collection to mark the project’s 30th anniversary in 2026.
From 2023 to 2024, ERA held the The Return of ERA concert tour across France, Spain, Germany, and Poland. These performances featured video projections and theatrical choral arrangements reminiscent of medieval mystery plays.
Success and Cultural Impact
ERA stands as one of France’s most successful musical projects, with over 12 million albums sold, numerous platinum certifications, and countless soundtrack appearances. ERA’s music has been featured in films, television, video games, and ceremonies. The project has influenced the evolution of neoclassical and ethno-electronic music, inspiring artists such as Enigma, Gregorian, Lesiëm, and Amethystium.
Eric Lévi’s Personal Life
Eric Lévi avoids public attention, preferring to let his art speak for itself. Passionate about history, archaeology, and philosophy, he infuses his music with deep symbolism. He continues to live in France, working on new compositions and mentoring young artists.
Legacy
ERA is more than a musical project — it is a philosophy that bridges ancient traditions and modernity. Its spiritually infused compositions continue to inspire generations of listeners. As of 2025, ERA remains a symbol of mystical harmony — a bridge between past and future — and proof that music can unite cultures and eras.
