NELLA PIETRA E NEL VENTO

The sovereign and robust voice of ALDO TAGLIAPIETRA of LE ORME fame forms the focal point of a collection of lushly romantic rock ballads. Its style is not unlike the more recent LE ORME albums of which Aldo was part, or the de facto mellow second track of many earlier albums. Apart from the vocals, the instrumental backing positions the album as on the fringe of progressive rock. But is it good? Yes it is a delight to the ears with more than enough solid instrumentation, imaginative arrangements, and vocals that don't so much stack up against the best in the business, as set the bar themselves.

The album manages to be consistent without sounding samey, as a variety of moods are presented. Wistfulness is a high priority but several more breezy and energetic pieces lift the heavy heart. If Italian lyrics are not understandable, Andrea's review can help, but Aldo's craft is in the musical equivalent of emotional intelligence. Sometimes prog connects with the mind so deeply that the heart can only follow, but this is pure heart and soul. Enjoy without guilt, that's an order!