MCM EGOFUTURISMO

Powerful Italian band trio from Varese, settled in 2005 with Pier Caramel on keyboards/flute, Daniele Mentasti on bass and trombone and Sergio Ianella on drums.They offered two privately-pressed releases, the self-titled 2005 debut and ''Suppurtatio Annorum Mundi'' from 2007, but it wasn't until 2008, when Ego became widely known with the album ''MCM Egofuturismo'' because of the Mellow Records interest in them.

While the trio claims to be influenced by the Classic Italian Prog school, they definitely have a more modern, contemporary approach on their music.The piano-based instrumental parts along with some delicate synth-driven solos and passages have a strong LE ORME vibe with a bit of a romantic sound overall.The majority of the album though is modern Symphonic/Fusion Prog, played with passion and an excess of energy.Caramel's synthesizers, piano and organ is constantly in a battle with a dynamic and solid rhythm section, offering moments of extreme technique and high virtuosity.Flashy passages, complex breaks, dissonant parts and a strong amount of solos are always in program.These sounds are sometimes enriched by light flutes, performed by Caramel.And despite the high level of virtuosity, the album remains a pleasant listening throughout.However a couple of flaws are present as well.The longest track ''Dinamiche & Alterazioni'' is a piece of Horn Rock/Jazz-Rock /Fusion with a very sweet atmosphere, obviously very far from the whole atmosphere, while the lack of any serious melodies tends to create a slightly monotonous soundscape.Still the interesting material is more than the average one with most of the tracks containg great moments.

A great album for fans of fiery, keyboard-driven Symph/Fusion and definitely a decent listening for the rest.No more or less than a solid recommendation.