ZARATHUSTRA

While not their only album, Museo Rosenbach's Zarathustra is by far their best, and certainly one of, if not the best RPI offering. The album takes the best of the Italian genre and mushes it into what could only be described as a flawless album from beginning to end. The energy and intensity is at an undeniable high, but is balanced by more atmospheric and melodic moments to give this a very diverse feel.

As mentioned, the basic style of this album is rooted in the intensity of Banco, the melody of PFM, and the prevalent keyboard work of Le Orme. The admirable thing then perhaps is their ability to sound completely unique despite carrying this combination.

Musically, the album is filled to the brim with energy and intensity. Ideas are mostly upbeat and flow from one to the next in rapid succession. Despite this, there is no shortage of theme development, leaving the listener engaged, yet allowing the album to become cohesive. This is something I believe only a few bands achieve, and is probably the strongest point of the album.

It is a bit harder to talk on a song to song basis, as each song offers something unique to the album such that a single one doesn't truly stand out. It is for this reason why I believe this is one of the more consistent listens from beginning to end. However, I believe one would need only listen to the beautiful main theme in 'Il tempio delle clessidre' or the crushing opening riff and organ work of 'Degli Uomini' to have a good understanding of the album.

This is without a doubt a masterpiece. Exciting, engaging, creative; the vocals are superb and the production leaves plenty of breathing room. This is as flawless an album as I can think of.

10/10