LUXADE

Lux Ade is one hour of the most accomplished modern Italian prog you will find-or so it would seem on paper. Here we have talented musicians, a famous producer, a concept album, acoustic instruments, and vintage period ethos. And yes it is very good with moments of prog bliss. So why the hell can't I get more excited about it? It's a very fine line and like Finisterre, which is another high quality modern band playing music with respect for the 70s tradition, La Maschera impresses me very much but doesn't quite hit my jugular in the way I need to award 4 stars. That may change over time if it grows on me. It is a very stately, robust, and romantic music with great Italian vocals and a heavy emphasis on the keyboards. This is not an electric guitar lover's album! Perhaps that is part of the problem for me, that coupled with the 62 minute running time there is a certain "sameness" to the sound even though it may be generally pleasant. Along with the fine keyboards and organ you will find ambitious flute and saxophone work. Everything is firmly anchored with a big bass sound that is very upfront and played like a lead instrument. It does make for a warm and pleasing disc that has its upside-yes, I'm on the fence here. I do like the way the band does not rush development and takes plenty of time to explore, especially the 24 minute epic track which is very cool. The highlights of the album though are the two 10 minute tracks, which are both better than the long piece and the short ones. "Un Senso All' Impossible" begins with gorgeous classical guitar, flutes, and synths. It slowly builds in intensity and has nice showcases of flute as the lead instrument throughout. "Nuova Luce" starts with a nod to Floyd electronics before a cool jazzy section. There is a calm section followed by cavalcades of keyboard variety in one melodious flirt after another.

I do recommend this album to fans of Finisterre and quality modern Italian symphonic as well as to any symph and neo fans. It's a classy album. But from my perspective one should first make sure to pursue a deep education in the classic period Italian first. After having experienced those amazing albums there will be plenty of time to get to updated things like this. The BTF mini-lp sleeve is a beautiful high-quality gatefold with a nice lyric booklet. For now, 3 ½ stars for LuxAde.