BATH SALTS

Claudio Milano is certainly one of the most talented vocalists i've come across in my years of listening to music. Some would say he's the modern day Demitrio Stratus since his vocals can range over seven octaves. If you doubt that then check out his solo album called "Adython" that really blew me away. This particular record is a double album and a concept recording at that. Two dynamics that usually do not work well for me as i've explained many times in the past. My first impressions of this work was that the vocals have taken on more of the focus compared with their previous album called "Il Gioco Del Silenzio". I really enjoy that record and gave it a solid 4 stars even though it was a little too long at 79 minutes, I must admit though that it was consistant regardless. This one is over 25 minutes longer than that, and I feel that consistancy has been compromised.

Disc one begins with "Prologo" as we are blessed with a pleasant and mellow instrumental. "Un Posto Sicuro" continues that relaxed sound but with reserved vocals. This continues throughout surprisingly including some flute. It's not until late in "Ricordo D'Infanzia" that we hear the theatrical vocals of Claudio. This continues in "Surabaya Johnny" and the music is still laid back up to this point. Interesting that we get a cover of Peter Hammill's "(This Side Of) The Looking Glass" from his "Over" album. This version certainly is more experimental and theatrical. "7 AZIONI (Musica Per La Carne)" is a highlight from disc one with those vocals and Avant background. I must admit I found disc one a little tough going.

Disc two begins with "Terra" with an eerie atmosphere and the vocals to match. This is better. I like that we get some drums and guitar standing out later. The next two tracks continue to be slower paced and difficult for me to appreciate. "Trittico 50 Mg" is also slow going but the vocals are entertaining. It sounds much better later when the intrumental work becomes the focus. We get two more reserved tunes then the almost 13 minute "L'Urlo Ritrovato". I really feel that the lyrics must be important to this album as we get another slower paced track with the focus on the vocals.There's some cool experimental stuff later in this song though. The remaining tracks continue in the same manner.

For me this doesn't come close to being as good as "Il Gioco Del Silenzio" but i'm sure many will like this better especially if your into concept albums that focus on the vocals. I just found that the instrumental work took a back seat here unlike their previous album where the band impressed me greatly.