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Reviews

Imagin'Aria — In un Altro Quando
(Lizard 5490032, 1996, CD)

by Rob Walker, Published 1997-10-01

In un Altro Quando Cover art

Imagin'Aria's style is comparable to that of other contemporary Italian heavy-prog acts, featuring a dramatic, heavy-metal inspired symphonic sound drawing on bands like Queensrÿche in addition to the usual array of progressive influences. But the music on this album displays ample hints of an affection for and understanding of Italy's own rich progressive rock history, an awareness somewhat uncharacteristic of this genre. That, combined with the solid, thoughtful execution of these songs seems to leave any possible neo-prog appelation far behind. The music here is driven by a creative dual guitar approach which mostly eschews the flashy solos and mindless riffing of many other bands, instead focusing on an ensemble sound utilizing contrapuntal textures and timbral variety to very good effect. The heavier elements of the band's sound are skillfully balanced with more delicate sections employing keyboards, strings, and acoustic guitar. Some noteworthy composition is evident in these six pieces, with good rhythmic and metrical variety and a smart harmonic sense permeating much of the disc. A certain maturity shows through in the competent writing; a wealth of musical ideas are incorporated into each piece, but the themes are always adequately connected and developed. The talented instrumental performance is equally effective at providing a compelling dynamic backdrop for a powerful vocal performance and at realizing the full potential of the well-written instrumental sections. In un Altro Quando does falter in a few places, and lapse into some idiomatic clichés, but this is still one of the best things I've heard from the new Italian heavy-prog scene to date.

Filed under: New releases, Issue 13, 1996 releases

Related artist(s): Imagin'Aria

 

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