LUNGO IL SENTIERO DI PIETRA

This debut album form "Sithonia" opens on a heavier than usual song for this lovely genre but after some shaky moments, one gets back to the roots of a beautiful Italian symphony: complex keyboards play, strong vocals and a rather dynamic band. The music is very well accomplished and rather complex. It is quite eclectic (in the PA sense) to be honest and somewhat disturbing for the usual Italian prog fan that I am. So is the good "Achil Island" opener.

The story is of course different while one listens to the pastoral and early Genesis "Il Foglio Bianco". Sweet flute are the highlight of this gentle song. Some might call this an easy listening song, but it holds such a fine mood ...

For those who are thrilled by this band and their rather confidential debut, I would tell that there are some weak numbers as well. Some pop-rock oriented songs that don't necessarily have their place here ("Non Cercarli").

Vocals which are usually a strong point for most Italian bands, are not always top notch here. But this is due to the fact that this role is taken by more than one singer. If they are convincing during the tranquil "Confusi In Mezzo Ai Simboli", I can't say the same about the weak "Pubblicità".

"Confusi." also features the best instrumental part of this album and it should be considered as the highlight. It is a wonderful tune for early "Genesis" lovers (FYI, I might be considered as one of those).

The majestic beauty of "Il Sogno." adds another great piece of work to this album. Each aspect of the genre is almost featured: passionate vocals, intricate drumming (to be noticed during the second part) and pleasant keys. This is definitely another very good song here.

The most Italian song form this debut is probably "Folla di Passaggio". Sweet fluting, fine acoustic guitar: I guess that you know the combination. If ever "Trespass" is of your liking, this song might be considered as a jewel. But the whole album is a bit too much heading in this direction.

"Lungo." is a good album. Three stars is the definition of such a work, right?