DÉ LÁ TEMPESTA ... L'OSCURO PIACERE

Phew! This album just blew me out immediately, so much so that I had to replay it again. It's not very common that I am sold on any work at first listen, but this one is a rare exception. I just hope that the excitement will remain - and also that the artists too, remain active in the music scene.

Undoubtedly, this work sounds like Peter Hammill is just leaving the studio to let Fish and Hackett have a great time together with Gabriel dropping in for a quick hello and all this is backed by Marillion on a very good day. No suggestion about plagiarism here, it's only the style that's perfectly re-created. Admittedly, I am not a connoisseur of Italo-Prog and generally I have a preference for instrumental music, but even the vocals here are delightfully pleasant and indeed I am looking forward to hear more from this singer and the rest of the band.

Four longish tracks (none under 10 minutes) delivered with admirable ease and precision with no hint of trying too hard, a common pitfall of many who try to impress beyond their abilities. My limited German knowledge translates "aufklarung" as "enlightenment". This music befits that term perfectly without any hint of New Age style (musical) boredom that could send you to sleep bordering on coma. Not here. Wholesome synth/organ-work supported by a great rhythm section, nice rhythm changes reminiscent of early Camel alongside the heartfelt singing keeps me alert and very receptive, yet able to lose track of time. Somewhat of a paradox adding to the magic I experience with great delight.

The production is also excellent and my only gripe is that nearly 45 minutes of playing time appears to pass so quickly that I had to check if my copy was correct. The work is that engaging and I am not quite a novice to music appreciation.

There is no way that I would offer this remarkably intelligent work anything under 5 big ones here in return for the pleasure I receive from this album. Not really groundbreaking, but seamless delivery ensures due recognition.

Anyone who is not adverse to Genesis, Marillion should check this one out before the limited copies become expensive collector's items..