CURSES AND INVOCATIONS

This is really a throw-back to the seventies sound with mellotron on every track and lots of organ. In fact this Italian band are a power trio but the organ is the lead instrument instead of the guitar. Bass and drums round out the sound although we get moog, piano and harpsichord too.These guys are on the "Black Widow" label which is a little surprising considering their sound, although if you read the lyrics and check out the pictures in the liner notes it makes more sense.

"Dysangelium" is led by mellotron early with vocals arriving a minute in.The song kicks in after 1 1/2 minutes and the contrast continues. I like when the organ leads the way late. "What More I Have To Say" is a brighter song once it gets going. Nice bass and organ in this one. "Cities Of Towers" opens with mellotron before the main melody (including harpsichord) then vocals come in.This song makes me feel good. A change 3 1/2 minutes in though as it slows down and gets heavier.The song "Ordeal" is very infectious, a THE DOOR'S-like organ led tune with a sixties feel to it, that turns quite dreamy later on. "Gehenna" is experimental to open with mellotron to follow. Vocals arrive quickly in this great sounding track.

"Arrival Of The Traveller" is a cover of a GRACIOUS ! tune.This turns out to be quite a psychedelic instrumental with lots of mellotron. "Herald" is another instrumental with emphasis on the organ. "Mooning 'Round The Mill Hill" is the longest song at almost 12 minutes.This is divided into 3 sections and is clearly one of the highlights of this album. A river of mellotron to open.The drums come pounding in as the organ lets it rip. Vocals follow.This is just the start of this most excellent ride. Organ and vocals lead the way on "N.T.F.B.Y." a catchy tune indeed. "The One You Fear And Hate" is another good song with lots of organ runs and I like the vocals.The bass is prominant as well. "Crossings" is the closing instrumental with pulsating organ, mellotron and drums standing out.

This is old school and I love it ! So much organ and mellotron on this vintage sounding album. 4 stars without hesitation.