ARBEIT MACHT FREI

One of the most talented and creative bands not only in the 70's italian progressive scene but in the prog rock history as well.Area deliver an excellent jazz rock album in their debut with some KING CRIMSON-like passages (just listen to the intro of ''Arbeit macht frei''),ethnic influences (the whole first track influenced by the arabian culture) and also some MAGMA-like sections (listen to the last track of the album).But it's not only the excellent musicianship that stands out,it's also the unique voice of Demetrio Stratos,one of the most obscure,powerful and weird voices I've ever heard.Stratos is the main figure of the band undoubtfully,I don't know if Area would have such a fame in the prog circles if Stratos weren't in the band...An album full of inspired vocal and music improvisations...5 stars and even more for jazz,RIO and Zeuhl lovers, 3.5 stars for an average prog fan...