PHOTOS OF GHOSTS

Virtually every moment of Photos Of Ghosts is awe inspiring. Rarely have a band been so precise, so in sync, so brilliant than this album. Each track moves through a series of impressions in the same way as a classical piece is structured. 'Il Banchetto' is the standout track and is a long, highly complex example of virtuoso playing that showcases in particular Premoli's incredible talents. It's frenetic pace transfixes from beginning to end, the metrical patterns of Cioccio's drumming is phenomenal. It slows in the middle section so that we have room to breathe within the wall of sound that is at times suffocating, but then picks up the pace again in the last impression with Cioccio's vocals dominating.

I will be the first one to admit that I usually have no idea what PFM's tracks are about as all is in Italian but it was great to hear English versions of their craft. Celebration is a great single featuring very catchy melodies and happy organ sounds throughout. I was introduced to the band through this track and it hooked me into this style of Italian prog.

The atmosphere on each track is captured by the use of sparse orchestral arrangements, featuring primarily Pagani's woodwind instruments and Premoli's organ phrases and the jagged guitars of Mussida. The minimalist feminine sections are augmented by the masculine rock sections balancing out the quieter moments. The flute is played to perfection and drifts along so sweetly it augments to ambience of the entire album.

Tracks such as Mr. 9 till 5 shift metrical patterns throughout and climax with the huge wall of sound that is essential PFM. There is a wonderful blend of guitars, violins and Hammond, Mellotron and Moog synthesiser building to a crescendo. The sonata form structure is powerfully realised with the bombastic vocal arrangements.

PFM have produced some stunning pieces such as River of Life that begins with the beautiful acoustic vibrations of Mussida, a real beauty that meanders like a flowing stream. The flute and harpsichord chime in like fish in the sea dancing in the waves. Then we are thrown over the waterfall as the majestic wall of keyboards bursts through like sun bursting through dark clouds. The vocals are simply awesome throughout.

The new directions of each track keeps the metronome working overtime with changes in time signatures and that ever pounding bass of Piazza. Each track is masterfully executed and charged with high emotion making this one of the best examples of Italian prog.