IL TEMPO DELLA GIOIA

Quella Vecchia Locanda is one of the few RPI bands that managed to produce more then one album, and for many fans the second is the favorite title, offering a more mature blend of the classical and rock elements. The music flows smoother; it's more laid-back and more daringly instrumental and classical. In short, it's as gorgeous as the album art really.

Compared to the first album, the rock element has been subdued to allow richer sonic textures and a delightful romantic mood. It's a tad melancholic but not morose, more of a romantic bitter-sweet sadness. It's a bit experimental at times but always refined and beautiful, in other words meticulously RPI.

The vocals have become less important and have changed quite a lot compared to the debut. Although Giorgio Giorgi is still credited, it sounds as if the vocalist from Osanna or Cervello takes the honors here, with a more nasal and trumpet-y style. I personally preferred the debut in this aspect.

As a last word of advice, don't confuse this band with Locanda Della Fata. This band only shares the 'Locanda' with the safe prog from later areas. This one is a fantastic and daring journey; not as much fit to my taste as the debut but simply excellent.