CRYSTALS

Recorded in 1974 this album was never released until it saw the light of day in the nineties. I'm not sure why that happened, it's just that the label decided not to release it. Other than the vocalist the other members were from well known bands.They got together to record a Hard Rock album basically. Paolo Tofani from AREA composed all the music but didn't play on it. Two guitarists on here, Nanni from SAMADHI and RRR and the other Marcello from BANCO. The bass player (Giorgio) is from PFM and the drummer (also Giorgio) is from the great ALPHATAURUS.

"Wrought Iron" is the opening instrumental where drums and bass lead the way. It's like an uptempo warm-up track. "Time Out" sounds so good to open with that bass, drums and guitar standing out. Vocals join in. Check out the drumming though. Guitar solo 1 1/2 minutes in. One of the best tracks on here. "Feeling" opens with acoustic guitars with reserved vocals arriving before a minute. A melancholic and reflective tune. "If She's Still Mine" is an instrumental but better than the opener. Strummed guitar, bass and drums to open. It kicks in heavier before 1 1/2 minutes as contrasts continue.

"Sad Story" is melancholic with reserved vocals. It's laid back until after 1 1/2 minutes when it kicks in. These contrasts continue. Good song. "Persian Carpet" has an aggressive intro. When it settles the vocals join in. Nice bass. I like the sections when he's not singing 'cause they're more dynamic. "Policeman" opens with what sounds like mandolin and it continues throughout. Electric guitar, bass and drums fill out the sound. Vocals after 1 1/2 minutes. He sounds like Plant here at times.Nice guitar 4 minutes in. "Woman Under Water" is the closing instrumental. Some intricate playing here that is impressive. Check it out 3 minutes in as it gets a little crazy. The best part of the album.

The sound quality is just ok, the vocalsist is also just ok. I'd love to give this 4 stars but in my heart I feel it's just not that good to warrant that rating. It's also interesting that the vocals are in English instead of Italian.