KALEIDOSCOPE

D.F.A. (a.k.a. Duty Free Area) blew me away upon first listen. Jazz rock isn't something I've spent much time exploring, so I wasn't sure what this was going to sound like. One thing for sure is that this stuff is crazy sometimes, and sometimes dramatically beautiful. So it's definitely a ride you want to make sure your buckled down for.

Kaleidoscope is a special re-release of remastered versions of D.F.A.'s first two studio albums, Lavori in Corso and the self-titled Duty Free Area, orginally released in 1997 and 1999 respectively. Moonjune Records took the opportunity to issue this 2-in-1 package to meet the demand of sales, which is always good for any prog group.

I'm not sure exactly how to describe D.F.A.'s music. It has an otherwordly feel to it. There are definitely jazz and jazz/rock fusion influences, but not being a specialist in this area, nor not having listened to enough from this area, I can't really comment on specific artist influences. From the rock side of things, I definitely hear some Gentle Giant and some symphonic prog in numerous places. The musicianship is absolutely amazing.

I love the instrumentals on this, absolutely love them, with highlights including Trip on Metró, Space Ace Man, Escher, Ragno, and Ascendente Scorpione. Now you'll note I specifically stated instrumentals, in order to separate them from songs with vocals. The reason I did this was because the vocals I found somewhat distracting. They really do need some work, even though they're sung in the native tongue.

The only other negative I have to mention is that some of the songs seem to meander off and lose their focus. Nothing terribly bad to complain about, really.

Absolutely wonderful musicianship, and some really crazy, foot tapping music. I love it. Both albums are not quite masterpieces, but they're surely an excellent addition to any prog music lover's collection. I even highly recommend this to those of you who haven't explored jazz rock/fusion. This is great place to start if you haven't. Four excellent stars!