L'ALBA DI DOMANI

Just when I thought that I've heard most of the 70s prog albums from Italy, I discover yet another gem. GRUPPO 2001 released their only album "L'Alba Di Domani" in 1972. The album, though, might not appeal to everyone. In fact, even the beginning of the LP is deceiving. The first track sounds like typical 70s Italian prog. The band begins with a theme similar to the first track on NEW TROLL'S ATOMIC SYSTEM. The drummer plays some rather busy drum patterns, and the music takes the usual proggy turns. But, just as soon as you get comfortable with this band, the music completely changes. After the first track, you realize that these guys were also into acoustic Italian folk influenced by some of Cat STEVENS' music. I would love to say that the singer sounds a bit like an Italian version of Ian ANDERSON, but he really reminds me of Cat.

Okay, I know that most of you are probably writing this album off already, but please let me mention that the melodies during the more acoustic moments are wonderful and beautiful. The band occasionally returns to a busier form of Italian prog, but the gentle acoustic moments make-up about 70% of the LP. The quality of the melodies, and themes, remains high; this is the sort of music that tends to stick in your head days after playing the CD. As always, keep in mind that Italian LPs from the 70s were usually 30 to 35-minutes in length, and, apparently this CD is only available on a Japanese label, so it sells for around $24. If you don't mind opening your wallet, GRUPPO 2001 are worth checking out.