CHRONOS

In 2001 Octavio Stampalia and his Jinetes Negros moved on to a second, conceptually more ambitious album, entitled ''Chronos''.Impressed by the calendar of Salvador Dali, published in 2000 by the Foundation of his wife Gala Dali, Stampalia decided to dedicate the next work of Jinetes Negros to him with 12 tracks, each covering a month of the year and the relative painting of Dali with surrealistic lyrics surrounding the music.The album was released independently, re-issued in 2004 on Viajero Inmovil.

It seems the calendar of Dali inspired Stampalia not only thematically but also musically, as ''Chronos'' is a much more consistent work than Jinetes Negros' debut, even if the general mix of Classical-influenced Prog with hard-edged music is again the main principle the new album is built on.This time though there is an evident, tight balance between bombastic segments, atmospheric lyricism, Hard Prog vibes and decent melodies to result an interesting work.Keyboards are offered through grandiose, orchestral textures or more virtuosic exercises in an E.L.P. vein, played mainly on synthesizers and organ, while the guitar work ranges from mascular riffs to excellent solos.Not very original material, but every track in here (all range between 4 and 5 minutes) has something to offer to the listener.The music is rather accesible and the vocals are stronger, more expressive and fortunately varied with a different approach on each track.Some Hard-rockin' solos seem again to be a bit out of place, but even these are often surrounded by Stampalia's interesting keyboard parts.Another issue seems to be the limited instrumental passages, as Stampalia sounds like a talented man, who could have delivered some nice instrumental performances, but this depends on the concept and, on the other hand, the music even so remains tight and energetic from start to the very end.

Vocal-driven Hard/Symphonic Prog with a nice concept idea around.Recommended, especially to fans of more upbeat Prog adventures with a thematical link.