FIORE DI METALLO

Another case of an Italian beat group switching to prog over the years, I Califfi were formed in 1965 in Florence, including among the members later Area's guitarist Paolo Tofani and Campo Di Marte's drummer Carlo Marcovecchio.An album entitled ''Cosi ti amo'' (1969) and more than 10 singles was the production of the first formation.By early 70's the only remaining original member was bassist Franco Boldrini.With Vincenzo Amadei on guitar/vocals, Sandro Cinotti on keyboards and Maurizio Boldrini on drums the new I Califfi released the album ''Fiore Di Metallo'' on Fonit in 1973, strongly influenced by the Italian Prog movement.

Unlike other beat groups which tried to blend their pop aesthetics with prog, I Califfi had fully transformed into a Progressive Rock band by the time the album was released with only hints of their past on a couple of tracks.Their sound was somewhat divided between powerful complex guitar-driven compositions and more elaborate keyboard-led arrangements with organ, harpsichord and moog synths on the front.The influence by classic acts like PREMIATA FORNERIA MARCONI, GLI ALLUMINOGENI or MUSEO ROSENBACH are more than obvious.The more folsky and softer arrangements have a strong PFM influence with good work on synths, organ and acoustic guitars, not to mention the expressive multi-vocal parts.Other pieces are dominated by complicated guitar breaks in a Hard Prog mood, not unlike the lines of CAPITOLO 6 or IBIS.Additionally individual numbers or parts of a composition show some strong influence by E.L.P. in a typical romantic baroque-styled Italian Prog with a sound close to HUNKA MUNKA.Overall the transformation of the band was more than sufficient, blending a variety of styles showing up in 70's Italian Prog, and only a pair of straightforward rockers seems to weaken the whole effort.

I Califfi are still active today, always led by Franco Boldrini, as Franco Dei Califfi, recording and performing around Italy.

A decent album, typical example of 70's Italian Prog, based on the balanced compositions,which will please any fan of specific prog styles, though the lack of originality is evident throughout.Strongly recommended...3.5 stars.