IL TEMPO DELLA SEMINA

Being part of the Trident label, Biglietto per l'Inferno had an unsuccesful end as most of the label's acts.A second album by the group was recorded in 1974 at the Regson studio in Milano and even a single was officially printed by Trident, but the label's fall during the year led to the demise of these Italians after some concerts in Italy and Switzerland.Of course neither the single nor the album were officially released and ''Il tempo della semina'' only saw the light some 18 years later thanks to the involvement of Mellow Records.

Compared to the debut, ''Il tempo della semina'' has less Heavy Prog moments and is closer to the Classic Italian Prog style with loads of symphonic textures and Classical interludes.There are still some incredible Hammond organ washes and hard guitars appearing in the music content of the band, but the more evident use of moog synths by Banfi recalls GENESIS at one point.The arrangements remain at a high level with some beautiful instrumental passages, featuring melodic synths, Classical-drenched piano parts and dreamy organ, while the guitars deliver nice psych-inclined soundscapes and the discreet use of flute offers some great richness to the compositions.The voice of Claudio Canali is still in great shape.Expressive, powerful and even warm when needed.Interplays are not absent.Not offered in a massive way, but when delivered the group prooved that it was one of the best acts of the Italian scene.Adventurous, dense and inticate instrumental pallettes of great quality.However it seems at moments that the heavier style of the debut suit better to the sextet, as ''Il tempo della semina'' lacks the tremendous power of Biglietto per l'Inferno's debut.

Towards the end of the 70's Baffo Banfi had a good solo career in the Electronic Music field with three albums, while drummer Mauro Gnecchi appeared later on Franco Mussida's album ''Racconti della tenda rossa''.In 2007 two of the band's original members, Gniecchi along with Giuseppe Cossa, reformed the group as Biglietto per l'Inferno.Folk and with the help of Banfi and some new musicians released the album ''Tra l'assurdo e la ragione'', containing reworkings of old songs.

One of the best Italian Prog bands ever, no question.''Il tempo della semina'' is another strong release by Biglietto per l'Inferno, being a great example of challenging Classic Italian Prog.Strongly recommended...3.5 stars.