AUTUMNSYMPHONY

The Seasoncycle suite divided into four parts continues for Hostsonaten aka Mr. Fabio Zuffanti.Releasing the albums in reverse order, ''Autumnsymphony'' is actually the second part of the cycle, coming out in 2009 on BTF.This time Zuffanti is helped by no less than 12 musicians/singers, with only Romano, Vigo and Nahum being stable compared to ''Winterthrough''.Drums are handled this time by former Zaal drummer Federico Foglia.

A whole armoury of traditional/classical instruments such as viola, cello, oboe, piccolo, bagpipes and trumpets stand opposite to the rock instrumentation of Hostsonaten once more.But this time Zuffanti gives space to more ambient and New Age atmospheres with the intense presence of folklore elements, while the more symphonic orchestrations are limited and, if present, more laid-back.The style is now wider, ranging from Classical-influenced instrumentals to pure atmospheric Folk adventures and jazzy passages with a good rhythm section.Most of the album's length is dedicated to Folk/Classical ambiences with a very deep but also quite lounge atmosphere, where acoustic guitars and traditional instruments are leading the way, to be slightly supported by mellow bass/drums and background keyboards.A couple of the compositions remind of the band's earlier efforts, Symphonic/Folk Rock with a grandiose approach, where keyboards, flutes and electric guitars collaborate nicely.But there is also an obvious tendency by the Italian master to more Jazz-oriented material as well, with electric solos in the vein of JAN AKKERMANN, presence by contrabass and light improvised sections.

Deeply atmospheric music with a melancholic Autumn touch, which regards a specific mood to be fully appreciated.Not the best Hostsonaten stuff around but still recommended for its diversity and quality musicianship.