DARWIN!

Banco del Mutuo Soccorso are certainly the most original band from the classic symphonic triad from Italy (PFM, Le Orme and Banco). They managed to create a very distinctive sound due to the great interplay between the two Nocenzi brothers on keyboards (classic pianos, hammond organs, moogs and clavinet). For this reason they are still very influential (Consorzio Acqua Potabile, for instance).

Darwin is not the most favourite of mine from their famous output. I still prefer Io Sono Nato Libero for its more mature soundscapes tinged with acoustic guitars.

Notwithstanding, I have to admit that Darwin is their most bombastic one (L'Evoluzione and La Conquista della Polizione Eretta), their most operatic and theatrical one (just listen to the superb Cento Mani e Cento Occhi), italic in its essence for its dramatic haunting melodies (750.000 Anni Fa... l'Amore), unespected jazzy variations (Danza dei Grandi Rettili), medieval flash-backs (Ed Ora Io Domando Tempo al Tempo ed Egli Mi Risponde: Non ne Ho!), wonderful classic arrengements (Miserere alla Storia) and, above all, very inspired vocals courtesy of a certain Francesco Di Giacomo (who probably does his best here).

You probably won't like it at first. But, listen to me: give it a pair of spins more and it'll never leave your top ten! A concept album for the evolution of your prog taste.