The 7 Samurai - The Ultimate Epic
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This particular chapter of the aforementioned acclaimed collection is only presenting three tracks by three bands (clocking a total of 76 minutes). All tracks, following the trademark of this series, are played with 70’s instruments and taking in deep consideration the leanings of the symphonic prog of that time. The bands playing in this album are: C.A.P. and Tapobran (Italy) and Tempano (Venezuela).
Consorzio Acqua Potabile starts the album in good fashion, with a 27+ track that swirls and changes aplenty, like a good sympho prog track should. The music seems to draw influences from Jethro Tull (the flute playing is obviously close to that of Ian Anderson) and Genesis & (some) King Crimson (for the Brittish sympho influences), but curiously it is played in a most Italian fashion (Le Orme, Banco and Museo Rosenbach being the most recognizeable connections, for me at least). This particular and subtle detail makes the track highly interesting, perhaps the best one in this particular album. CAP does achieve a tremendously diverse track that, nevertheless, is maintained cohesive and logic. A track that will make the delight of the 70’s sympho prog fans.
The Venezuelan Band Tempano presents an almost as long track as the album predecessors, securing the continuation of a vintage sound but with a tad more contemporary tendencies. The singind style approaches many times that of very early Genesis (from the Trespass era) and so does some of the music, but some keyboard lines may address the listener to the ELP aestetics. The guitar playing may also remind you of some solo works by Hackett fusioned with some more Guilmourish lines. Some jazzy moments and others that are more atmospheric are also conjured in this 26+ minute track. One that must be listened more than once to become enthralled in the listeners ears.
Closing the album, the also Italian band Tapobran retrieves the most ELP driven sounds of this album. This track is more focused on the creation of keyboard textures and virtuoso playing by that same instrument, though allowing all other instruments to get their chance too. It is a tense track, filled with sound barriers and complex playing. It is also, though, the track I like less in this album (but still a good vintage track, don’t get me wrong).
Well, for those who have liked the previous concept albums of this praisable project, this one is an unmissable asset to add to your collection.
