UT

My tortuous week of having to review New Trolls albums continues, as I mentioned these guys are not my favorite. However, UT is definitely easier for me to swallow than the previous two albums. Here I can hear a group asserting an identity beyond wishing themselves the Hendrix/Purple/Tull Appreciation Society. I hear Italian vocals, more thoughtful compositions, more nuanced playing, and less showing off. But while it is a slight improvement over the previous two it still falls short of something I can recommend. There are some nice moments here and there but again you have a rather forgettable set of songs which don't relate well to each other. Some of the shorter tracks are pointless filler. Many of the longer ones have their moments but fall short of real Italian prog grandeur to this listener. Frankly you can hear the lack of focus caused by the friction in the group with some tracks not complimenting others as mentioned, and other songs drifting on and off of auto-pilot. The notable exception is "C'e Troppa Guerra" which may be the heaviest song to come out of 1973, right up there with Sabbath chugness. This track has some big nasty riffs and Ozzyish vocals that will go for your jugular. Well assembled and well played, it rocks but still bores me, I'd rather play Sabbath if I need this kind of fix. "Paolo e Francesca" is so laid back it sounds a bit like a drunken practice session. I'm a bit tough on the Trolls I realize but I have to call em as I see em. I see their early albums as slightly progged-up hard rock of average quality, that's as simple as I can put it. I'll go up to 2½ stars for the improved "UT" over the previous but still can't get to 3. Most reviewers like them better than I so decide for yourself!