GIRO DI VALZER PER DOMANI

Second album of Italian symphonic fusion band Arti & Mestieri is a mixed bag. Having on board one of the greatest drummers ever (Furio Chirico), they play fusion for symphonic prog lovers. What means their music is in fact melodic, well rounded and polished, as any Italian band plays, with very non-jazzy keyboards, but from other hands strongly influenced by great fusion drumming.

Yes, I agree they listened much for Mahavishnu Orchestra, but their version of MO sound is too polished and toothless. Violinist again is just a moment of the influence, but no way really important musician on A&M sound. Vocals are really on a good side though - strong, with specific timbres and non-operatic, as on many other Italian prog recordings. Compositions are average, but not memorable enough.

In fact their best moments are rawest jazzy compositions, when all the band just plays support to great drummer. Not a bad listening for melodic symphonic prog lovers, interested in some fusion in their music, but hardly an attractive music for serious jazz rock/fusion fans ( drummer Furio Chirico is a serious reason to listen this album though).