L'INFINITO

I must admit that there are no Le Orme cd's in my collection between the classically inspired Florian released in 1979 and this 2004 album. I have always been put off investing in their 80's and 90's releases due to the poppier direction the band allegedly took.

There's no doubting that with L'infinito though that we are listening to a band playing symphonic prog again, a reversal towards their classic 70's style which started with their 2 previous albums to this I believe, though I haven't heard them.

2 members remain from the classic 70's line up; the unmistakable and melancholic vocal tones of Aldo Tagliapietra (also bass) and drummer Michi Dei Rossi with his powerful yet subtle drumming style, playing primarily for the song rather than on some muso ego trip to display his chops. The band now boasts 2 keyboard players, Michele Bon and Andrea Bassato who both fulfil their roles with admirable aplomb.

While L'infinito doesn't reach the heights of their early 70's output it is nevertheless a very worthwhile release, well produced though a bit overly smooth. A typically mellow yet full Le Orme sound, alongside the symphonic elements are classical influences though nowhere near the extent of Florian for example. Instrumental Il Tuono E La Luce is a fine start with majestic sweeping keyboards and what sounds like a guitar is in fact simulated on the keyboards. The tracks flow seamlessly together almost giving the impression of a single piece. The music rarely enters the realms of bombast, restraint being the operative word but nearly always enjoyable with strong emphasis on melody, only the sitar dominated La Ruota Del Cielo spoils things a little, an instrument that has never done much for me.

If you're looking for musical pyrotechnics then this is not an album for you, but if well crafted and tuneful symphonic prog is to your liking then you could do far worse than L'infinito. Not a masterpiece but very enjoyable nevertheless. 3 ½ stars.