ALPHATAURUS

Alphataurus

Rock Progressivo Italiano

4.14 | 430 ratings

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One of the top PFI albums of all time without doubt. I certainly found it easier to get into than any other Italian band I've yet heard.

"Le Chamadabre" is a 12 minute prog epic. I have my problems with the singing style on this (and Italian prog in general) which is rather overly emotional to my taste. Generally the sung sections of PFI are less satisfactory to me; perhaps I really need to know Italian folk music better. The instrumental parts are more imaginative with a bit of church organ here and there. But the form is rather ramshackle and it is safe to say this is no lost masterpiece.

After this lengthy but wayward track, "Dopo L'uragano" seems to be inspired by "dazed and confused" by Led Zeppelin. Again I find the vocals almost hysterical which detracts from my enjoyment. But this track is not negligible.

The next two tracks could be used as superior soundtracks. "Croma" contrasts a fidgety section with an expansive and nostalgic melody.

"La Mente Vola" is even finer and is, IMHO, one the masterpieces of PFI and indeed all prog. After the beguiling opening instrumental, a vocal tune appears which is more memorable than is the norm for Italian rock. Despite this piece being rather repetitious and having not much thematic material (quite the opposite to the opening track), it sustains its 9 minutes admirably. This track alone makes this album worth buying.

The final piece "Ombra Muta" is not to the same level. After a laidback opening, that has something of a Pink Floydish air about it (although again the emotive singing detracts), we go into a harder instrumental passage with fuzzy guitar and later synth solos. This outstays its welcome. But then a distorted guitar brings back the opening.

I would say this album is close to being essential but let down by just one or two points.

Cheesehoven | 4/5 | 2010-10-5

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