PHOTOS OF GHOSTS

Premiata Forneria Marconi (PFM)

Rock Progressivo Italiano

4.03 | 622 ratings

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ZowieZiggy
Prog Reviewer

Just like "Banco" did in 1975, "PFM" signed for the Manticore label ("ELP") in 1973 or thereabouts to acquire a widespread distribution and fame.

Lyrics in English provided by Pete Sinfield (which should have been a guarantee of quality) and the same and beautiful music as usual is performed. Not being a great specialist in the Italian language (French and Spanish are the only Latin language I fully master), I have no real problem with this change. As for "Banco", I can't really tell whether they sing in English or in Italian (same comment was also made by Erik).

What' s for sure is that the opening number "River Of Life" is an absolute masterpiece. As the original "Appena Un Po" was on their second album "Per Un Amico". Because since this album was meant to get the band known in Europe (the continent and the UK), most of these songs were already released in an Italian version.

Mostly from "Per Un Amico" but not all of them like "Celebration" ("E Festa") which was featured on their debut. Nothing wrong about it since it was mostly instrumental. As delicate and passionate as the original. In one word : great.

The unrealeased "Old Rain" won't add anything to your "PFM" discography. take it for granted. A jazzy and peaceful track. Fully pastoral and only pleasant during the flute break. As "Banco" will do a little later on their album... "Banco 1975", there will be one untouched song : "Il Banchetto". It was the highlight of their second album).

There is even some sort of trick in turning an all instrumental original track into a sung one. "Mr. 9 'Till 5" will do so. But not with brio, I'm afraid.

I am not sure that the best of the early "PFM" is featured here. Still, it is a good album. Three stars.

ZowieZiggy | 3/5 | 2007-11-18

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