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Premiata Forneria Marconi (PFM) - Per Un Amico CD (album) cover

PER UN AMICO

Premiata Forneria Marconi (PFM)

 

Rock Progressivo Italiano

4.40 | 1933 ratings

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Equality 7-2521
4 stars PFM is probably the seminal Italian symphonic band, offering the best place to start for new comers, and probably most representative of the genre.

PFM creates lush, symphonic atmospheres on Per Un Amico with the rock elements of the music being very much downplayed and even brushed aside. It bears more resemblance to a classical form than that of a rock format. The band makes very tasteful and perhaps the most effective use of flute in a very soothing way like the sonic equivalent of a mother's kiss. Also excellent use of piano, mellotron and mini-moog is present. Overall the songs are soothing but at times can drop into a surprisingly heavy instrumental section. Really the songs change their sound just as quickly as you can string words to describe it. Acoustic guitar is favored over the electric here which gives you an idea of the overall tranquility of the album. Comparisons are hard to make due to their striking originality but Gentle Giant and early King Crimson, without their overt jazz influences, serve as the best points for comparison.

The Italian vocals may be a roadblock to sum but the album wouldn't have the same effect if sang in English. It's not what these guys are saying that's important but rather the beauty with which they say it. No real standouts or weaknesses here and nothing pinpointable keeping it from being five stars. It just seems to lack that magical vibe to push it over the edge. For fans of the lighter side of prog but with an open mind fans of any genre will be able to appreciate.

Equality 7-2521 | 4/5 |

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