PIERROT LUNAIRE

Very few Italian bands are categorized in the prog-folk genre. And this ''Pierrot Lunaire'' (whose name sounds more French than Italian) displays a wide range of good prog feelings: folk (but not too much), symphonic and most of all genuine Italian prog like in the excellent opener and well titled ''Ouverture XV''.

This debut album (but there will only be two unfortunately) is of a very decent length in comparison with most of the Italian productions in these ancient times and the music flows very nicely from one song to another. From folk (''Raipure'') to the psyche-medieval ''Invasore'' (what a blend)!

The genuine delicacy of Italian prog being available as well in this debut. Even if short, the almost classical ''Lady Ligea'' is a beautiful keyboards oriented tune which should offers great delights to all prog ears.

The band investigated some more the acoustic psyche roots and performed ''Narciso''. A sweet trip but not too fancy to tell the truth. So far, it is the weakest track from this effort, but not too many damages are made either.

Some Andean feel is provided by the catchy fluting during ''Il Re Di Raipure'' which breaks the lesser interesting mood showed in some previous tracks. I guess that a song as ''Sotto I Ponti'' should bring all the fans of folk, symphonic and Italian music all together: it combines all elements each one would like to hear. The highlight.

Most of this work is pleasant to listen to; once in a while some weakness but overall this album fully deserves three stars (maybe seven out of ten).