LIVE IN TOKYO

We all know one shot bands, generally author of a brilliant album. Bands who quickly, too quickly, went back into the mists of oblivion. Best kept secrets or beautiful losers? England and "Garden Shed" comes to the mind, Silver Lining's "The Inner Dragon" in France for instance. And Italy, Maxophone and their eponymous opus released in 1975. This album quickly became a legend at the time it was published and even had its English version. It deserves it because the music, both symphonic and jazzy in a pastoral atmosphere, is a thing of beauty. Think of Genesis, Brand X and PFM (violin parts). I believed the band was gone with the wind and what a surprise I had in my letterbox! A live record! In 2013, they went to play in an Italian prog festival in Japan. From the original line up, there are only Alberto Ravasini (acoustic guitar, keyboards, vocals, flute) and Sergio Lattuada (keyboards, vocals) left but they are the main leaders I would say. And they hired gifted fellows for this rebirth. Thus the magic is back. Of course, the Milanese outfit plays the whole album (including a splendid version of 'C'è un paese al mondo') but they add two unreleased tracks, one ('Guardian Angel') showing welcome Gentle Giant influences. What a pleasure! A thing of beauty is a joy for ever (Keats).