IL PAESE DEI BALOCCHI

One between so many one-shot RPI band from early 70. Differently from many others popular RPI releases,this album's music is not only very symphonic, but often dark, complex and almost non-mellow.

Interesting, that compositions there are not symphonic music with mellow pop-rock arrangements, as too often could be heard from similar releases, but real tasteful symphonic prog on its best! Plenty of organ sounds remind more JS Bach or catholic church organ messes than popular classics adaptation for schoolboys party. Sound is ambitious and bombastic, but this album is that rare case when bombastic doesn't mean negative.

Musicianship is of really high level and I really respect how musicians work with symphonic material. Possibly some can say that there are not real melted music of classical and rock is presented, and I can see the reason for such comments. But to be honest,such responsible use of chamber and symphonic material, when rock elements never destroy it,but sound more as side-part additions, is really respectable in my opinion.

In all cases, this only band's release is really one of the greatest examples of non-mellow and non-cheesy RPI, besides of Museo Rosenbach. For many of you who disappointed in RPI because of their "pop meet classics meet rock" sound this album could be one good chance to find great sides of RPI. Just try!

P.S. Re-release 2 bonuses are funny Italian vintage pop, better just skip them.