ALPHATAURUS

Offering up a heavier than average brand of Italian prog, it's no surprise that Alphataurus' debut album was a comparative success in an Italian market which back in 1973 was crammed with high-quality releases - alas, they split partway through the process of making their second album, though happily they seem to have made a triumphant comeback. The sound here reminds me of some of the more energetic moments of Meddle/Dark Side of the Moon-era Pink Floyd combined with a bit of organ-based bombast from Pietro Pellegrini which manages to avoid ELP-esque showboating whilst still being a raw and dangerous presence. Definitely one for fans of heavy Italian prog such as Il Balletto di Bronzo, this album presents a fascinating contrast to the more pastoral side of the Italian scene.