PASSIO SECUNDUM MATTHEUM

This record features lyrics from the Gospel of Matthew that are sung in Italian. There is a lot of variety on this album and the mellotron is great ! Quite a bit of solina on this record as well.There is narration in Italian of course. I'm not a big fan of the opera-like female vocals that remind me of why i detest opera so much. Fortunately they are found on only two songs "Ultima Cena" and "Il Processo" both of which are under 2 minutes in length.

The first song "Introduzione" is a highlight with the mellotron and vocal melodies as well as the amazing drumming that really stands out through the whole album. This guy can play ! "Getzemani" opens with atmosphere as spoken words come in. It does pick up some as vocals join in. More fantastic drumming late. "I Testimon I (Part 1)" opens with acoustic guitar followed by spoken words then vocals. The mellotron flows in beautifully, then we get some good guitar with those great drum fills.The melody sounds beautiful as piano is added. Part 2 of this song is pretty much the same except for maybe the percussion.

"Guida" opens with a heavy soundscape that comes and goes. Mellotron is added to create atmosphere. "Il Re Dei Guidei" features some amazing guitar and drumming, a highlight indeed. "Il Calvario" opens in a similar way to the first song on the record, although this song has church organ all over it. The vocal melodies are great ! The final song "Messe De Maggio" was not on the original release but was added later, and was a released single from 2 years after this. And this you can tell.

There is so much to like here yet it is not without it's flaws. A definite 4 stars for this album which is apparently Greg Walker's favourite album.