IL LEONE E LA BANDIERA

Le Orme, the legendary Italian band, continues its legacy with one of the three original members remaining (five in the debut album). Frontman and vocalist Aldo Tagliapetra left the band over 15 years ago, and several have tried to fill his shoes in the different lineups of the 2000s. His iconic voice was a hallmark for the band, and its absence is noticeable in the albums released after his departure. For this latest work, which the band members themselves have suggested might be their last, they bring in Luca Sparagna on vocals and bass. And what can be said about him? An impeccable choice, with a timbre reminiscent of Aldo's, an excellent vocal range, and a vibrant and colorful personality.

We are possibly witnessing the best Le Orme album in the past 15 years, or even longer, not since the farewell of their original keyboardist, Antonio Pagliuca, has there been an album of this magnitude. This record revives all the pastoral magic, the candid interplay between acoustic guitars and synthesizers, and the sweet, evocative melodies that paint delicate and natural landscapes. The flexible yet direct compositions bring to mind classic albums like "Felona e Sorona" or "Uomo di Pezza," with contemplative and sweet pieces that resonate closely with both us and the broader Latin American prog community. There is undeniably much of Le Orme's influence seen in latin-american bands, Los Jaivas, Sui Generis, and Crucis.

The organs?whether they are tube, harmoniums, or Hammonds?are a delight throughout the album and contrast perfectly with the set of digital synthesizers and orchestrations (we have strings and a choir). The album has strong emotional points like "Rosa dei venti" and gentle introspective songs like "Lucciole di vetro," offering a broad spectrum of sensations while always maintaining a clean, melodic, and pleasant aesthetic for any listener. The solos are incredible, just as the classic ballad choruses are.

"Ouverture" is, as the name suggests, an opening piece for this tremendous work. It's simply an instrumental track filled with keyboards that serves as a palate cleanser and introduce us to this phenomenal album.

"Acqua di luna" is the first standout track. Everything we expect from a Le Orme song is here: a voice reminiscent of Aldo gliding over acoustic guitars and bowed strings, delivering memorable melodies later echoed by the synthesizers. A smooth and airy track that showcases the value of simple and dynamic production with high emotional impact, achieved through its compositional arrangements.

Without warning, we are hit with hard rock, Hammond organ, and all the glory of the '70s. "Ferro e fuoco" is sharp and lethal with its unforgettable piano/Hammond counterpoints. The vocals take a backseat as the instrumental madness takes over this progressive marvel.

An ethereal sense of comfort takes hold with "Lucciole di vetro." Luca's incredible voice transforms the choruses into true gems that will linger in memory. A song driven by grand piano and vocals, where nothing can go wrong.

"L'alba della partenza" is another progressive track heavily driven by keyboard counterpoints. It presents itself as more delicate and ominous, with minor melodies that move unpredictably. The soft vocal sections strongly remind us of Charly García's inflections or that pastoral Le Orme from "Collage."

And now, the strongest contender for the best song on the album, "Rosa dei venti." This composition offers beautiful themes, keyboards, open, reflective, and emotional ambiances. After almost four minutes of precious sonic undulations, we transition to the final section where a choir sings the chorus, flooding us with happiness and magic.

The album's final track is the most experimental. Michi dei Rossi unleashes his creativity, adding drums and various percussions to the mix, enhancing the atmosphere created by pads and '80s guitars drenched in reverb. The icing on the cake is the Hammond organ at the end, ready to blow out our speakers, another spectacular climax that reassures us, one last time, that if this is indeed Le Orme's final album, they are going out with a bang.

This album is a spectacular reimagining of the best of Le Orme from the '70s. It's for fans of "Contrappunti" and those who were left wanting more after being captivated by the incredible interplanetary love story of "Felona e Sorona." A return to that timeless sound, filled with counterpoints, as classic, elegant, and romantic as ever.

Originally written for: Nacion Progresiva.