IL PITTORE VOLANTE

In 1972 RRR presented their highly acclaimed debut LP entitled Per 'Un Mundo Di Cristallo (an excellent example of the very distinctive' classic' Italian progrock) with huge variety and blending many styles), then the group disbanded and some members started to play in other bands like Samadhi and Procession.. But almost 40 years later RRR delivered a new album entitled Il Pitore Volante, already during my first listening session I got exited. What a glorious return, RRR still change very easily different styles and their music still sound captivating and adventurous with lots of musical surprises.

The album opens with the alternating Il Cambiamento: first a thrilling blend of mouth organ and propulsive guitar riffs, then a compelling climate featuring wonderful classical orchestrations, a spectacular synthesizer solo and blistering guitar leads and finally an experimental part with drums, piano and brass. All topped by powerful, slightly theatrical Italian vocals. This promising start epitomizes RRR their music because in the other 8 tracks we can enjoy a huge variety, an adventurous approach and strong solos. For example, from the sultry Eastern climate with passionate vocals to a surprising acceleration with folky violin and cheerful vocals in Il Vecchio. And the varied guitar work in Eagle Mountain: a Hackett-like classical guitar intro, then fat Texan bluesrock guitar and finally a Floydian guitar solo. Or take the Seventies symphonic rock in L'Uomo Nuovo featuring swirling Hammond, flashy Minimoog and sparkling flute traverse and the cheerful folky final track La Spiaggia that contains warm acoustic guitar, vocals and flute. So much to enjoy!

RRR their music succeeded to keep my attention during every second, but you have to be up to their varied sound and their musical contrasts. In case you are, this album is highly recommended! By the way, 3 years ago RRR released the live CD Live In Elba featuring both old and new tracks as some surprising covers (Led Zep and Jimi Hendrix) in the second part of the set.