TRA DI NOI

Classic, big-hearted RPI is not dead, nor does it emanate strictly from old grayhairs creaking through their reunion show set. A new symphonic prog-rock fantasy tale has been spun by four young men from Milan: Gianluca Bonelli (vocals, guitar), Stefano Sabbatino (bass), Luca Montone (drums), and Andrea Gobbo (keys). From the first strains of this album with the gorgeous artwork, those "prog hairs" on the back of your neck will rise and not settle back down for some time. I really love the fact that such young guys are so enthusiastic---my speculation, of course---not only for '70s RPI but also perhaps '80s neo and perhaps the '90s rebirth years as well. No doubt they're also quite aware that many current bands are exploring these sounds, and they threw their wizard's hat into that ring. The results will make your heart swell. (I'm thinking you, my friend Thomas Szirmay, among others, will dig this.)

PFM/Orme, Locanda Delle Fate, Il Castello di Atlante, Prowlers, Coral Caves, and Logos: these are some of the names (over the decades) I thought about while contemplating who this album might appeal to. The album consists of four longer tracks (6-10 minute range) and four shorter complimentary pieces. All of the longer compositions are strong and thoughtfully constructed, obviously with an objective to add to the conceptual storytelling that is happening. They are trying to take you on an adventure musically and lyrically. Thanks to our wonderful Andrea Parentin, we non-Italian speakers have some insight into the story. The adventure begins in the very first (awesome) song when the tale, to quote Andrea, "takes you on the banks of an infernal river for a surreal quest to the tree of evil, a monstrous, threatening weeping willow. Once found the tree, the protagonists will have to struggle to cut it down and let it sink into the waters of the Styx... The album cover shows us the diabolical tree in the story. Check out Andrea's review if you want more of his lyrical interpretation of each song.

The first three tracks are the most impressive to me, just a rollercoaster of very cool synthesizer sounds as well as beautiful melodic piano, some mournful flute playing, with the guitar, bass, and percussion work caring more about serving the music and story than creating meaningless pyrotechnics---no sacrifice to the altar of Dream Theater-style "flash" playing here. Instead, this is music that is robust adventurism wrapped in a classic prog comfort-sound cloak with moments of beautiful melancholy as well. I'm impressed with the vocals that are expressive and emotive without being over the top, and I really love the vibe of the songwriting (and playing) more than any specifics I'm able to articulate. I hope this is but the first chapter of many for these guys, but if they end up being a "one-off," then their attempt at conjuring an alluring "album for the ages" was fruitful.

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