IL TEMPO DI FAR LA FANTASIA

"Il Tempo" is an interesting 90s Italian prog release. The band is closer to the lighter and prettier sounds of Mindflower or Willowglass than it is to a bolder band like Finisterre. The album is as drop-dead gorgeous as the album cover advertises: beginning to end it is chock full of stately keyboard play, mostly synths and piano, drenched in reserved and nuanced electric and acoustic guitars. This is an album for people looking for romantic, pretty, pastoral prog. I think it's an enjoyable album that blends a classical symphonic feel with a distinct neo-prog feel but my rating stops well short of some fellow reviewers. I think there is too much sameness throughout the album in the overall sound. It's a bit too pleasant at times, a bit too John Tesh, in need of a little more drama or darkness if simply for some contrast. There is some variety in the composition as mentioned below, but not enough in the sound.this album could use more variety in instruments and participants. I notice this on most albums by a single musician or even duos with guests as is the case here; there is little substitute for a true band with a wide variety of talents.

"Canto" is the highlight of the album, a 10-part suite covering 22 minutes. The first vocals begin after a brief intro and it is quickly obvious they are not the strength of the group. Certainly not bad, just soft, fragile, without much confidence. The keyboards quickly establish dominance with a lush organ and synth backdrop for which the electric guitar lays down some nice soloing, using the volume pedal to good effect. The electric guitar use is noteworthy in the way it is melded into the sound, rarely out front, more aurally blended into the actual keyboards so as to be sometimes indistinguishable. Then we have some tasty piano and flashy drumming. The piece moves through a wide variety of compositional territory with some upbeat sections, some dreamy lighter sections. (Again note the distinction between composition which is quite good, and sound which could use more variety.) It is mostly instrumental using vocals as just more texturing as opposed to a significant role. "Il Prescelto" begins with the mentioned Neo-sounding mood, upbeat, light, friendly. Lush keyboards abound with acoustic guitars and pleasant vocals. The drum work is certainly proficient, sometimes even a bit busy for the material being supported. "Cielo di Carta" features fragile falsetto vocals over acoustic guitar with light synth background. There is also some piano sprinkled lightly in the mix. This track has a longing vibe to the music. Flashy little keyboard solo at the end. "La Collana" is similar to "Il Prescelto" but with some breezy electric guitar in places. "Nel Labirinto" begins with a strange vocal collage that is a bit scary, but soon gorgeous acoustics begin playing and there is delicious flute-sounding synth and beautiful piano. The bass comes through a bit more towards the end which is welcome. Abrupt fade-out end..ouch.

Not bad but not a title to get super-excited about. If you are relatively new to Italian prog do not start here. After a thorough sampling of the '70s classics you may wish to try this someday. When you get to the 90s I would suggest sampling Finisterre's wonderful "In Limine" before trying Montelfeltro.

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