LA GRANDE CASA

The last album of their classic era is the one that embraces the wonderful Italian style. While psyche and prog heaviness were very much present in their first three albums, one can note a much deeper Italian sound in here. And I can only say that I like this one better.

It all starts magnificently with the fine and emotional opener: ''Rapsodia di Radius''. It is a jewel of sweet moments combined with harder passages (it reminds the structure of ''The Musical Box''). This joy though is seriously jeopardized during the weak ''La Ciliegia.''. A weird rock song, at times bluesy, that is best avoided as far as I am concerned. Fortunately, it is the only of that kind featured.

One is projected back into the ''Trespass'' world with the beautiful ''Libertá.''. A wonderful and passionate expression of what symphonic prog is all about. The harmony is incredible, the music is poignant and the crescendo finale is just superb. Another highlight of this ridiculously short album.

The title track has a more rocking feel than the other tracks. Almost spoken lyrics are combined with piano only parts and quite rhythmic sections as well. A transitional number in awaiting of the sublime ''Cara Giovanna''. Another great track from this album. Again, the traditional ingredients of the genre are featured: emotion, delicacy, skills and passion. I have to say that the instrumental sections is particularly well crafted and should give the shivers to an ice cube.

The closing number of this half an hour of music is not very convincing I'm afraid. The chorus of ''Bambina Sbagliata'' is especially painful.

I have a mixed feeling about this work: some pieces are brilliant while other ones are average. At the end of the day, I will rate this album just as each of their previous ones: three stars.