MICROCOSM

'Microcosm' is the new (2022) album delivered by ALEX CARPANI, my first review attempt when it comes to this experienced composer and multi-instrumentalist. Yep, I immediately was convinced, most certainly got stuck on this when starting to listen. Since more than 15 years he has produced a vast amount of music, which might be referred to several genres in general. That means not exclusively progressive rock, but I would say equipped with a strong preference on that anyhow. Sometimes the project is assigned with the suffix BAND, sometimes not, it doesn't matter in the end. It's a case where he has the hat on for sure, manages a lot on his own. But this is augmented by several guests too in any case, where some of them are really big names, for example featuring David Cross (violin) and David Jackson as well as Theo Travis on diverse wind instruments. Carpani is managing a very appealing progressive art rock album featuring some singer/songwriter touch overall. Let's say akin to Kevin Gilbert on solo paths somehow, just to give a proper clue regarding the stylistical classification and the quality standards in general.

This album is spreading a wonderful atmosphere to the world. It all starts with the touching Starless that will promise an enjoyable excursion furthermore. First 'Don't lie, don't cry ...'. Kiss And Fly is rocking the boat, a really interesting multi-varianted composition. And then 'Let me cry, let me lie ...', God Bless Amerika, 'I just know it's not for me ...', lyric-wise accusation or at least some criticism is shimmering through obviously. Excellent organ and piano appearance on The Mountain Of Salt furthermore. Terrific, initiated by a nice piano line the instrumental Prime Numbers turns out to be my personal album highlight, at the moment at least. The cheerful jazzy mood, diverse solo activity, wow! I can't come to another conclusion, this are round about 60 minutes playing time where every track has something special to offer, absolutely entertaining. It grows with every round, a colourful experience, just like it is with the tempting front cover picture.