SPRINGSONG

Of the many bands and projects where mr. Zuffanti is involved (La Maschera di Cera, Finisterre, Lazona, Merlin Opera Rock ...), Hostsonaten is the most warm, mellow, gentle and melodic one with hints of folk and celtic influence plus sparse touches of jazz. That "celtic-symphonic prog" (I don't know how to call it, otherwise) is what came out better from this recent work.

Springsong is the last studio album released by the band and is based upon a compelling symphonic structure (moog, pianos and mellotron, synth) driven by acoustic instruments as the 12 strings guitar, violin, saxophone, flute, delicate whistles and even bagpipes! Nine instrumental composition, with some sparkling variations and a unique recitative part in "She Sat Writing Letters on the Riverbank". The general mood of the album is different from the usual italian contemporary prog scene. There is not the purpose to surprise the listener with pompous arrangements or with fast and unespected changes of tempo. The music'structure is somehow similar to the classic band Celeste and its warm and soft wonderful compositions.

The message is clear: to relax the tired symphomaniac and give him the opportunity to reflect on all of his sins, to look to the world through ancient and never-changing natural forces. It would be possible then, for the most lucky of us, to come closer to the mythic embrionic state. This is the difference from Celeste. The symphonic structure is the main vehicle to reach all this with the alliance of the natural themes upon which the concept is based on.

The final track "Toward the Sea" is the longer composition (about 13 minutes), divided in three parts (Blackmountains, 3rd Reprise and Springland). The album's manifesto, for sure. Excellent equilibrium from all the musicians. Stunning!

A wonderful musical experience, not everyone's cup of tea, but possibly one of the most important record of the last years. It would have been an appropriate addition to the Lord of the Rings' soundtrack... wonderful! 3,5 stars.