RISE OF KASSANDRA

If you right now are searching for a typical new reference album standing for the term Progressive Rock, there you are! With 'Rise Of Kassandra' we have a splendid debut production at hand, that's for sure. Initially brought to life by drummer and composer Ivo Di Traglia the band is hailing from the capital of Italy. And they also confirm that not every group from that country should be automatically filed under the special Rock Progressivo Italiano umbrella. Okay, significant for the main part of course are the lyrics in this case. They are presented in English language, and contributed by brother Iacopo Di Traglia. 'This is the way to destroy all ...' - concerning the context, well, it's somewhat cryptic, apparently dealing with a new rise of mankind after some dystopian experiences? The Fall of Troja? According to the album title this seems to draw on the Greek Mythology as well in some way. Certainly ambitious.

What matters, singer Mattia Fagiolo serves a flawless contribution, has a big share regarding the rounded impression. That also applies to the rest of the crew, speaking of Jacopo Tuzi (bass), Francesco Caponera (guitars), and Pierfrancesco Di Pofi, who is providing an arsenal of key instruments, not missing the Mellotron of course. And furthermore several guests are listed, who will enrich the sound with diverse other guitar extras. While checking the tracklist for the first time, you may expect an EP, as there are (only) four songs revealed in sum. But with a total length of 24 minutes playing time the final epic The Sacred Law Of Retribution marks half of the production alone. Divided in seven partitions this is a true monster track that warrants time to comprehend. Partially heavy, partially symphonic, 'Rite Of Kassandra' covers diverse styles, and a flow that won't let go of you anytime soon. Fantastico!

Well-composed and -performed Retro Prog from Italia. The sound engineering is weak in places but overall it's pretty good.

1. "Rise of Kassandra" (13:00) the vocalist is great when he's singing low and soft, horrible (very pitchy) when belting it out. Another guitarist who has taken up the BRIAN MAY guitar sound. Too many times I find myself doing double takes as I hear riffs that have been totally and completely lifted out of classic 1970s prog. (21.25/25)

2. "Delighted Insanity" (5:46) showing some instrumental skill, this is definitely a tighter, cleaner song than the previous rendering, it's just not very exciting or new. (Sounds a lot like Spock's Beard [over-]doing 'Classic Era' STYX.) (8.5/10)

3. "Island of Servitude" (5:11) some nice meat and sound rendering with no excitement or flair. Like eating spaghetti for the 1,234th time. (8.5/10)

4. "The Sacred Law of Retribution" (23:46) They're no Orphaned Land or Neal Morse Band, but the Christian references are not lost upon me. Most of the time on this one I find myself listening to (and enjoying) the drumming--or the chunky bass. Jesus Christ Superstar may have set the precedent but it's rarely been done as a serious entertainment very well and Ivo and company do little to change my perception of this--even with their Genesis "Firth of Fifth" homage at the end. (43/50)

Total Time 47:43

C+/3.5 stars, rated up for talent, good intentions, and future potential; a nice addition to any prog lover's music collection--especially if you're into constant direct citations from "Classic Era" prog and Classic Rock music.