EL TOR

CITTÀ FRONTALE all-star line up recorded the controversial "El Tor" in 1975. Raising from OSANNA's ashes , this record did not get a warm welcome from the critics being seen as a too strong departure from the heavier OSANNA sound. Apparently, the name of the record is taken from "El Tor", the scientific name of the cholera vibrion whose epidemia stormed Naples in 1973. Noteworthy is the cover design by drummer Massimo Guarino, which also designed some of the OSANNA covers. "El Tor" shows a fairly good mix of true prog rock, mediterranean folk sounds and jazz rock, although a subtle commercial approach sneaks in here and there. While the first two songs show a close resemblance to Osanna best tunes, the second part of the record has a more folksy and poppier trait. Overall, the record shows a careful production and all band members make a good display of their very high musicianship. Among the best songs of this record, "Duro Lavoro" get the highest score for its well calibrated mix of vocal harmonies, acoustic instruments, the flute interplaying with a nice zappesque guitar, and the nice tune. The listener may recognize influences from OSANNA, PFM, FRANK ZAPPA, MAXOPHONE, SOFT MACHINE, SAINT JUST, TONI ESPOSITO. In few words, it is worth the purchase for italian prog-rock lovers while the true Osanna fan may probably get some disappointment. - Ludovico Vecchione