|
|
 |
|
|
| I have not heard Metamorfosi's other album from the previous year, E fu il sesto giorno, but it's Inferno that is reckoned to be their masterpiece. The album is inspired by the first book of Dante's Divine Comedy. The opening desolate scene and the doorway advising "Abandon all hope ye who enter here" are both taken directly from the book. There are then a series of songs relating to specific types of sinners (the vicious, the greedy, the racist etc), but all this is of limited interest to most who read this, as the lyrics are all in Italian. The faux-operatic vocals by Jimmy Spitaleri make the most immediate impression. His voice is definitely an acquired taste, but one worth acquiring for the reward of the passion he puts into his performance. The lasting impression is made by the keyboards. Chugging piano, soaring moog, delicate harpsichord, and swirling Hammond all drive the sound of this frenetic album. The result of the vocals and keyboards combined is something like Banco plays ELP. Of course, as with all such comparisons, the usefulness of this one is limited, but it is a good starting point to get an idea of their sound. The album generally flows well together and has a unity that most concept albums only strive for. "Introduzione" is an appropriately cheesy opening and "Conclusione" gives a satisfying sense of finality. There are, however, a few track linkings that are disjointed and spoil the effect. This is a must have album for anyone who has already been bitten by the Italian bug, especially those who love their keyboards loud. This is perhaps a step behind the best Italian prog of the time, but only a small step. review by Conrad Leviston — 1-8-04 —
|
|
|
|
|
