TILT - IMMAGINI PER UN ORECCHIO

One of the best fusion albums from Italy of the 70's. Musicianship is excellent and inspired, players do not try showing off all the time. The most dominant player, in my opinion, is the drummer, who is very profilic and provides also some unnecessary fill-ins. Violin and synths + ARP2600 are also sound trademarks of Arti e Mestieri.

The first composition is pretty much THE trademark signature of the band with its typical fusion melody, complex drums and focus on keyboards and violin. Saxophones and clarinet push the sound to another fusion league. The interesting contrast is very jazzy saxophone feeling soloing over more rocking drums.

The second composition introduces good Italian vocals that have warm emotions. "Positivo/negativo" is balancing between going left and right as heard by violin. Calming vibraphone is deceiving since abruptly furious drumming comparable only to Cobham/Mouzon legendary intensity enters the stage. Agressive guitar duels this very well and is finally to be heard. After a sudden stop, a new calm saxophone start leads us into "In Cammino" - a welcome break from intensive drums. However, soon the time signature is changed into third-based that make one want to dance. One of the most dynamic moment is with wild saxophone solo seconded by drums and bass guitar. "Farenheit" is a pleasant change to hear piano with clarinet and the composition evokes good old times. "Articolazioni" offers many changes including Canterbury-like vocals.

The last track is experimental synth/Mellotron noodling and has nothing to do with the album's context.

A highly recommended album for fusion and Italiano Rock Progressivo fans.