IO E IL TEMPO

I quite liked their two prior albums (but more the later ''Dopo L'Infinito''). Of course, when it comes to vintage Italian symphonic, I am often charmed and laudatory, so.Since I am heading fifty, there are little chances that I'll change my mind on such a fine album as ''Io E Il Tempo''.

Although this work fully falls under the symph category, it also features some weird and intricate passages which can relate the band with Crimson. It is particularly true during the first section of the title track.

The music even sounds wild at times. The strong keys are wonderfully sustained by an excellent drumming and a serious bass work as well. Actually, each musician fits his role perfectly and the whole is really shining in this wonderful epic.

This track is an excellent example of what the genre has to offer to its fans (but not only). Every proghead should be attracted by these fine sounds and distinctive vocals. The Italian language is just so beautiful to my ears (maybe because of my Latin origins.) and when it is combined with many emotions, I just succumb. ''Io E Il Tempo'' is almost nineteen minutes of pure joy.

And let me tell you that the writer of this review is just as excited about the second epic available here: ''Domani Io Vecchio''. It starts as a fine ''Genesis'' track and holds so much passion! I was of course almost convinced before having listened to this album but this musical experience is soooo moving.

The interest of ''Domani..'' is not of the same level as the title track IMO. A bit longuish and less inspired after ten minutes. But the band gets back to better moods when the formidable guitar solo enter the scene after sixteen minutes or so. From then onwards, the magic operates once again and it only stops when the track finishes.

This album is such a great gift from this band. It surely deserves your attention IMHHO. Great symphonic music for symphonic lovers. I think I do belong to the definition. Four stars.