FELONA E SORONA

Le Orme are one of the most popular italian bands, and "Felona E Sorona" is considered by many to be their best work. They are sort of like an italian ELP, but less bombastic and more symphonic. The keyboard player has much talent and shows it well throughout the record. Bass and drums are also excellent. However, this album was ruined by the poor, poor vocals. They are very strained and have a low range, and since the italian language isn't the most beautiful language to start with, it doesn't work at all to my ears. In many instances it seems like the vocalist is singing in a totally different band, because the music is gentle and lush, while the vocals are strained and overly dramatic.

Songs like "Sospesi Nell Íncredibile" and "Felona" are of the best and show what Le Orme is capable of. However the record suffers short comings in the vocals and awkward arrangements. Like most of the Italian bands of the time, they were two years behind, and less talented. I think it could be greatly enjoyed if you can get past the terrible vocals. A Good addition to a progressive music collection.