A.M.I.G.D.A.L.A.

Tilion spent the next few years participating in compilation and tribute album.On ''The Letters: An Unconventional Italian Guide to King Crimson'' they covered ''One Time'' by King Crimson, followed by two tracks for the ''Spaghetti Epic'' compilations in 2004 and 2007 respectively.What followed was the preparation of their next allbum ''A.M.I.G.D.A.L.A'' with notable guest appearances on vocals by Presence's Sophya Baccini, Lino Vairetti of Osanna fame, Clive Jones and Helena Biagoni, who had collaborated with Malaavia.The album came out in 2008 on Musea Records.

One important difference was now that all vocals were delivered in English, however the unique flavor of Italian Prog never seems to flow away from the type of arrangements the band was keen on creating.Basically ''A.M.I.G.D.A.L.A'' sounds like a more focused album than ''Insolitariamente'', mixing the Classic Italian Prog atmospheres with the strong KING CRIMSON vibes in the more complex parts and this work sustains a very haunting atmosphere throughout.The music is very dense and rich with full-blown keyboard passages, good breaks and complicated instrumental ideas, approaching at moments the demanding style of IL BALLETTO DI BRONZO or ALPHATAURUS.Lots of dark Mellotrons and soaring synthesizers move along the tricky guitar plays, either with heavier or more jazzy leanings, while the album contains also well-crafted, softer moments with a folky or more Classical-oriented taste, led by piano preludes, smooth flutes and discreet synthesizers.In general though Tilion's music remains pretty energetic and powerful with tight variations linked to each other, cleverly based either on atmospheric or more technical performances.The five singers participating in the album all deliver excellent performances, another good reason to enjoy the album.The Avant-Garde touches are pretty much eliminated in sake of a more Prog-inclined sound, still Tilion manage to offer a music of their own, combining complexity with more delicate symphonic moments.

Apparently the band was put on ice after this release, as Alfio Costa became very busy with his new project Daal, while around the time Roberto Aiolfi ressurected Prowlers from nowhere.

''A.M.I.G.D.A.L.A'' is a very good work for anyone searching for dynamic, atmospheric and fairly adventurous Classic-styled Progressive Rock.With both modern and retro influences contained, this one ends up to be a quite cool release.Strongly recommended...3.5 stars.