L'EGITTO PRIMA DELLE SABBIE

Released in 1978 and this was the last album that Franco Battiato released with the Ricordi Label. The album is comprised of 2 instrumental tracks the first being the title track. The release was awarded The Karlheinz Stockhausen prize who was a German pioneer in Electronic, Avantgarde and Classical music and died recently in 2007.

I do not hesitate in saying that this minimalistic work is precisely that.in the extreme. The first track comprises of piano chords with repetition. Basically it is the same notes repeated. There are some slight changes with the notes on only about 3 occasions throughout the piece and timing is paramount. I should also mention solo piano is the only instrument used. The majority of listeners will agree that this is tedious material and to be avoided at all costs but for me when listening to this album if one does not listen to it with any preconceptions it is an interesting listen from a technical viewpoint but if you are after an entertaining listen this is not your baby.

Track 2 and we have a piano duet or twin pianos if you prefer. The track is called Sud Afternoon and to me is only slightly more entertaining than the first which is not a recomendation.

This was his last album in this style for this era, (you never know he may get the urge again) and is the most boring for me. Hardcore Collectors only or people who are so out there they were never anywhere to begin with. It hurts to do this with Franco, but 1 star.