I, too, have been bitten by the Messaien bug (or should I say bird?).
I only recently got a recording of the Turangalila (Previn on EMI double
forte). I find it a little difficult to listen to in parts, like the
"Illuminations from the Beyond."
Personally I love the birdsong and the delicate sonorities he produces
in the orchestra. For someone starting to explore Messaien's world,
I recommend Quartet for the End of Time, or the Reveil des Oiseaux
(orchestra). Naxos has an excellent complete set of the Catalogue
d'oiseaux (piano solo). I've sung some of his choral works but don't care
for them too much. I haven't really begun to explore his organ music yet.
Enjoy . . . there is much mystery (regardless of your own religious bent),
color and fun here.
Jim Saunders
Portland, Oregon USA