OPERA PRIMA

Paolo Rustichelli (keyboards and vocals) and Carlo Bordini ( percussion) recorded in 1973 their only record 'Opera Prima'. The duo is inspired by ELP and produces a powerful symphonic prog with great dynamics. The only weak point are the vocals of Rustichelli.

'Nativita' the instrumental opener gives the direction with heavy organ chords, synth bass in the intro, followed by a first slow theme with a nice flute synth voice and a second more aggressive theme with great drum & keyboard interplay, before a reprise of the first theme on piano ends the track.

'Icaro ' starts with a recitativo part supported by organ chords, that leads into a bluesy medium tempo groove and a first theme where Rustichelli forces too much his vocals for my taste. A rhythm change leads to an organ/bass/vocal riff followed by an ELP- like groove with jazzy organ washes and a great Emerson-style organ solo and ending with the reprise of the first theme.

'Dolce sorella' opens with a citatation of Wagner's 'Tannhäuser' opening theme on organ and builds up a beautiful main theme (a variation of the 'Tannhäuser' motif) supported by organ and vocals, and followed by a moog solo and the track ends with an Emerson trademark Fanfare.

'Un cana', a slow blues opening with a piano theme, a countermelody for a second piano, a great track if not for the overstressed blues vocals of Rustichelli.

'E svegliarsi in un giorno' starts with a synth lead, organ chords and a bluesy first theme, followed by an organ solo and great drumming by Bordini. A highly syncopated section ,again with fantastic dynamics, leads into a reprise of the first theme.

'Cammellandia ' the last track opens with a beautiful piano intro, followed by a fanfare-like organ riff (with regards to ELP) and a great development for keys and drums. After a slower section an alterrnating part of organ riffs and drum rolls. The track ends with piano and a synth lead.

A great symphonic prog record !