UNO

Uno's unique release was only the in-between step of the Osanna's evolution. During the recording sessions of Landscapes of Life it was quite evident that the bands' members had so different opinions on what it should be their music in the future and on their political visions itselves! So Elio D'Anna and Enzo Vallicelli decided undergo together their separate way joined by Danilo Rustici from other classic band from Neaples, Cervello. Later, the band changed the name into Nova and the prog tendencies rapidly decreased.

Italian music press of that period was very curious and interested in this new 1974 project and the Fonit boss decided to send the neo-formed Uno in London at the Trident Studios, the same where Pink Floyd registered their magnum opus Darck Side of the Moon. And this is not the only tie with the famous space-rock band. Vocalist Liza Strike also appears in the closer track of this album and the Hypgnosis studio created the cover of the album english version (completely sung in english).

Similarities stop here. There is no comparisong that can be found in music or in melodies. Uno continue exactly where Osanna left and, in my opinion, this is not a lack! Acoustic guitars, flutes and saxophones all drenched with moog and pianos. The track- format, as in the Landscape of Life album has a more concise and short structure but it holds high level of prog hidden, as a jewel, in almost every track.

Lyrics are half sung in english half in italian. Generally the italian ones are the most proggy track. Just listen for example to I Cani e la Volpe (Dogs and Fox, 4,01 mns): moog and distorted sax paint together a quasi-spacey interlude. Uno nel Tutto (One in All, is the longest track about 10,11 mns) is a very complex track with distorted vocals and strong and eclectic saxophone. Fiery electric guitar. After all, Osanna's spirit was not dead!

Another interesting track is the second titled "Popular Girl". This is a strange song, at least for the firs half 'cause is structure as a pure rock'n'roll old classic. But after the two minutes, drums start the fights! It reminds me of some interludes of Jethro Tull. Very good!

What I could say? Despite the critics and bad comments, I feel this album is made of excellent prog music. At least for half of its running time. The rest, is a good soft- melodic-prog with some a commercial tendency. It never loose its artistic form, though. I admit I enjoy very much to listen to it.

3.5 stars.

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