GENERAZIONI (STORIA DI SEMPRE)

E. A. Poe was a group of young Italian musicians that released this their only album in 1974. My apologies to the band for previously suggesting that they didn't write their own songs; all tracks were in fact composed by the band and the lyrics were supplied by one of their friends. I hope that clears that up, but it was a genuine mistake on my part. Once again, sorry. Nonetheless, this is a nice album by one of the lesser-known RPI bands.

As its name suggests, opening track Prologo acts as an introduction to the album as a whole. It begins in a sinister-sounding key with spoken words and piano arpeggios. After a couple of minutes this gives way to an up-tempo section featuring jazzy electric guitar and rhythm section; there's also some synth effects and piano in the background. Considerazioni reinforces the mysterious mood due to its sparse opening with only bass and more electronic effects. Thereafter it mainly features raw bluesy guitar and Hammond organ, although there are also a few mellow moments and some brief vocals. This is one of the most interesting tracks as it is in a state of continual flux. Track 3, Per Un'Anima, is a short acoustic ballad with heartfelt vocals and pleasant string synth. This song provides a nice contrast to the previous track. Next up is my favourite on the album, Alla Ricerca Di Una Dimensione. This song features superb contrasts; from the bombastic eruptions of Hammond, bass and drums, to the melodious vocal parts. Unfortunately this song is only 4.23 in length; it really could have been developed further, but that's a minor quibble.

Ad Un Vecchio is the longest track and almost tips the 7 minute mark. It has a moody opening with synth and piano, followed by spacey guitar and bass. Vocals and Hammond introduce the main song and it continues in fairly slow-paced psych style. La Ballata Del Cane Infelice is another delicate acoustic ballad featuring the wonderful tones of Beppe Ronco's mandolin. The album then concludes with the title track. This one begins with acoustic guitar and synth. We then hear some whispered vocals that remind us of the dark atmosphere earlier in the album. Some nice piano brightens the mood and when the song gets into full flow it features joyous vocals with Hammond, synth and electric guitar.

Although this young band were influenced by Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple, their sound is really classic RPI if a little raw in places. The album has some excellent moments but overall I would rate it as good i.e. 3 stars.