LA COSCIENZA DI ZENO

Sort of an Italian Prog supergroup, La Coscienza di zeno from Genoa were born in 2007, led by bassist Gabriele Guidi Colombi (Trama, Narrow Pass, Il Tempio delle Clessidre and Armalite), drummer Andrea Orlando (Malombra and Finisterre), singer Alessio Calandriello from Narrow Pass and guitarist Matteo Malvezzi.During the summer of 2008 Malvezzi was replaced by keyboardist Stefano Agnini, followed a bit later by guitarist David Serpico.The last to enter the band was keyboardist Andrea Lotti in 2009 and the next year begin the recordings of the band's debut.This was released eventually on Mellow Records in 2011.

''La Coscienza di zeno'' is structurally a strange album.It starts off with a style like a cross between Neo/Symphonic Rock mixed with modern Italian Prog, but closes in a complete Classic Italian Prog heaven.The first few tracks sound like contemporary bands such as YLECLIPSE or SITHONIA with big time nods to Classic Italian Prog.Plenty of powerful synth runs (sometimes even with a MARILLION-esque flavor), careful guitar moves but also huge Classical-drenched organ themes offer series of dynamic and impressive pieces of music.The arrangements are excellent with lots of interplays and the vocals come in the best Italian Prog tradition.The more the album unfolds, the more come in evidence the influences from the 70's.Fantastic Mellotron washes and delicate piano interludes make up for some trully majestic moments.Slowly the guitar parts become heavier with touches of MUSEO ROSENBACH in the listening, while the best is saved for last.The last two pieces are simply outstanding, close to the sound of LA MACHERA DI CERA.Amazing flute drives, bombastic organs and Mellotrons, punchy guitars and jazzy pianos collaborate to result two complex, melodic and grandiose arrangements of unmet beauty, even more strengthened by the poetic voice of Calandriello.

Searching for high-class Italian Prog from the recent years?Look no further.La Coscienza di zeno will leave you speechless with their ultimate deegrees of technique and composing.Fantastic, almost masterful material...4.5 stars upgraded.