PER UN AMICO

For an RPI album, this one is unique. Many claim it stands as the elite sign of what the genre is, I say it stands out because it goes in other directions (beautifully, I might add) while bringing in all the familiar Italian elements the make the genre so nice.

Most RPI is very dramatic. Even though I can't understand any Italian, I still feel and understand that the music has a very important storytelling aspect. This is even more obvious in albums such as Le Orme's Felona e Sorona, which ais essentially a sort of Italian mini-opera. This album, however, in many instances put aside that quality for the sake of musical development, in many unexpected ways. The second track, for instance ("Generale") is in fact instrumental, and contains bizarre elements such as fife and drum/violin descants. The effect of all this is quite pleasant, as the music flows from one light airy idea into another, like a snapshot of life in Italy, each section different yet mingling into one great, lively culture.

This album is highly recommended. If you want a taste of Italy, all rolled up into a nice progressive package?look no further! Violins, tasty synth, great guitar tones, wonderfully pleasant singers, and a whole slew of other beautiful instruments will not let you down.

A round of applause, please, for the next five-star recipient!