DELUSIONE OTTICA

From Reggio di Calabria hails this quintet, found in 1996.In October 1998 they recorded the self-produced demo ''Difference'', warmly received by the press.In January 99' original singer Andrea Cannizzaro quits and was replaced by flutist/singer Luca Salice, simultaneously Jet Lag turned into more jazy realms.In 2001 Salice along with Fabio Itri (guitar), Saverio Autellitano (keyboards), Bruno Crucitti (drums) and Marco Meduri (bass) recorded the band's debut ''Delusione ottica'', released on Lizard/Pick Up Records.

The music of Jet Lag was the definition of energetic Prog/Fusion, bringing into mind compatriots such as ACCORDO DEI CONTRARI, PERIFERIA DEL MONDO, D.F.A. or DEUS EX MACHINA.The tracks contains tons of interplays performed through solid performances, characterized by powerful grooves, shifting changes and sudden breaks.And while the production is modern and the style very fresh, Jet Lag's sound hides constantly a nostalgic vintage feeling, translated into deep organ waves and fiery flute solos.The arrangements are full of time signatures and complex structures, mainly instrumental, while the vocals are decent, though nothing really impressive.Among the highlights are Itri's powerful rhythm guitars, Salice's retro-sounding flutes and Autellitano diverse work on keyboards with nice organ, electric piano and synth workouts.

After the album the band was unfortunately put on ice and returned only in 2004 for a cover heading to King Crimson's tribute album ''The Letters: An Unconventional Italian Guide to King Crimson''.However ''Delusione ottica'' is a good reason to recall the band in your memory, as it contains complicated and highly energetic Progressive Rock.Only for fans of trully challenging listenings...3.5 stars.