ROLLER

This is an excellent introduction for Rock Progressivo Italiano. While it is instrumental, the music retains many lovable sensibilities, and it is highly enjoyable. The musicians are excellent in their respective capacities, and still each piece moves in a definite direction. This exceptional album is certainly not one to pass by.

"Roller" A brief atmospheric section brings in plucky keyboard, bass, and drums, followed by a steady organ. The organ is incredible during this piece, even though it largely follows the lead guitar. This is an exceptional work, and is not to be missed. While I wish the bass had a fuller sound, it's still well-performed and tight with the drummer.

"Aquaman" Soft, watery sounds, keyboard, and acoustic guitar open this piece. The bass growls but keeps a trebly head. The guitar is pleasantly gritty, working over the bass and drums. The descending riff at the end leads right to the dripping water.

"Snip Snap" This short piece is also the quirkiest. The bass is snappy (makes sense), and it has some great panning effects with the synthesizer. The guitar is funky also. The synthesizer solo is fantastic, though, and the drums sounds phenomenal. This is just a great, fun instrumental.

"Il Riveglio Del Serpente" The percussive introduction is a powerful introduction to the acoustic guitar and piano that follows. But the guitar and piano are jazz instruments in the best way on this one, even with the other instrumentation over and under it. The piano is amazing, running underneath the other instruments as it does.

"Goblin" The piece that bears the name of the band begins with strange sounds, like popcorn being popped, or devilish hands clapping. Synthesizer and piano work alongside each other as the other instruments burst in. The synthesizer use is the best here, though, contributing to the overall structure. The bass guitar is powerful and punchy. The lead guitar work is simply spectacular, working alongside the other music even as the musician demonstrates his ability. It is the synthesizer that makes this track stand out, though. The piece features a rollicking drum solo that is heavy on the snare.

"Dr. Frankenstein" Fabio Pignatelli uses some swampy bass to lead the rest of the of the music. Otherwise, it sounds similar to Camel on the Mirage album. Abruptly, it stops to bring in machine gun bass, drums, guitar, and a wild synthesizer lead, which is the most unrestrained thing on this album.