QUELLA VECCHIA LOCANDA

Excellent, sophisticated, melodious Italian progressive rock music. Using flute and electric violin liberally, this album reminds me a little of PFM and JETHRO TULL. All the songs are very good but I particularly like 'Realtà' which is mellow, and 'Dialogo' which is heavier with some good synth, bass and drums followed by vocals making a great song. 'Immagini Sfocate' rocks, as does 'Il Cieco' which also has some great flute work. 'Verso La Locanda' starts with some slightly jazzy violin and piano and then ups tempo; the track reminds me a little of TRAFFIC in places. The last track 'Sogno, Risveglio E...' starts with some good piano and electric violin, and turns into quite a classical-sounding piece with a good tune.

I should also mention that the electric guitar, bass and drums are by no means neglected on this album. I suspect that this album would appeal to the entire spectrum of progressive rock fans: it doesn't have the very sentimental feel of LOCANDA DELLE FATE which is a turn-off for some (not me, though), it has some very melodious parts, and there are also some good heavier parts. Only if you're not keen on violin might you not like this album so much, as the electric violin does play quite a role; it does fit in perfectly though.

A timeless classic of Italian progressive rock. Highly recommended.