REALE ACCADEMIA DI MUSICA

An essential example of seventies Italian symphonic prog is this wonderful debut from Reale Accaemia Di Musica, released in 1972, as great a year for Italian prog as it is also considered for the UK. It's the only album listed under the band's name to feature this line up and as such can be considered a one off release, other line ups bearing little resemblance on a musical level to what's happening here, though I can't speak for La Cometa released in 2010, an unreleased album from 1974 which I'll hopefully get round to hearing one day.

Six tracks of beautifully crafted symphonic prog, not overly complex though played with great feeling and flair. There's a melancholic vibe often present, even on some of the more bombastic moments, no doubt increased by Henryk Topel Cabanes' plaintive vocal delivery. It's an album for keyboard lovers with piano featuring heavily as well as some enjoyable organ work and Procol Harum is sometimes brought to mind. There are many mellow moments - it's halfway through the second track before we hear the rhythm section but it does have its share of powerful bits and reaches a climax of sorts with closing piece Vertigine, the albums most adventurous song including a stunning organ workout.

While this may not be one of the most adventurous Italian prog albums of the period, and there were plenty that were, it nevertheless has many admirers with its sense of melody and melancholic charm and while not the stuff masterpieces are made of is still pretty essential listening for RPI fans.