IPOTESI

Gruppo d'Alternativa originated from Milano and competed for a short time with a seven-piece line-up, which consisted of Tino Guasconi on vocals, Gianfranco Fumagalli on flute, Leonardo Dosso on bassoon/acoustic guitar, Rodolfo Pace on electric guitar, Roberto Romano on keyboards, Paolo Rizzi on bass and Nino Flenda on drums/percussion.They wrote their only album in 1972, dedicated to a friend of singer Tino Guasconi, who died in a road accident.Their work was even performed for some time at Teatro Uomo with a good response by the public.The original vinyl, which features the band's name simply as GdA, came out in 1972 on Harvest.

Very much Classical-influenced, ''Ipotesi'' is an album, which recalls the folky side of BLOCCO MENTALE or CELESTE and the intense moments of BANCO DEL MUTUO SOCCORSO, having an amazing balance all the way with clever and interesting arrangements, while the pieces often flow as a long story.Narration was delivered by keyboardist Roberto Romano.Romantic acoustic textures with pastoral flute parts break often into complex Italian Sympho Rock with dramatic vocals, deep organ showering and scratching electric guitars.What sets this group a bit apart from the rest of Italian symphonic bands is the presence of bassoon along with the flutes in many moments, adding eventually a kind of R.I.O flavor to the album.The instrumental parts are full of power and intensity with chaotic interplays and frequent changes between acoustic and electric variations.The keyboard work is particularly great, either offered through atmospheric and mellow waves or delivered with passion and depth, revealing both Classical and psychedelic inspirations.Some jazzy interludes are also present in sporadic parts and the battles between flute, organ and guitars are the absolute highlight of the release.

After the demise of the group Leonardo Dosso spent some brief time with Stormy Six between 1976 and 1977, participated in Luciano Basso's second album ''Cogli il giorno'' and later he established The Arnold Woodwind Quintet, a Chamber Music ensemble, with which he spent over twenty years.Paolo Rizzi appeared as a guest on double-bass on the thrilling self-titled album of Italian Prog legends Maxophone.

Under-the-radar release, which has plenty to offer to the demanding proghead.A variety of melodramatic and romantic atmospheres, wrapped up in short but always fascinating structures.Strongly recommended...3.5 stars.