| Patti Chiari | Massimo DiCataldo | Giorgia |
| Irene Grandi | Modena City Ramblers | Eros Ramazzotti | Enrico Ruggieri | Umberto Tozzi | Michele Zarillo |
| "Fuochi d'Artificio" |
Classic Cuts: Francesco Guccini & I Nomadi -- Album Concerto
Italian Sinfonia Spotight Archive
"Patti Chiari"
Mini cd with 3 songs (E' La Pioggia Che Va, Non Ti Tradirei
and Non Ci Sto). I like this group-- but then again I am a
sucker for any song that uses the the background vocals in a fun, innovative
fashion. The music is a mix of pop, rock and a touch mediterranean
soul. For only 10,000 lire it is well worth the listen. If
you find it, add it to your collection and amaze your friends with your
knowledge of new bands.
back up
"Crescendo"
As the title implies, Massimo is growing in many ways including artistically
as evidenced by this album. I liked the work overall but was not
overwhelmed by it. Less raw energy and more thought in the lyrics
and arrangements. To get a taste of another side of DiCataldo try
his debut album from a couple of years a go for an incredible sample of
an emerging vocal talent. This is an album for fans to enjoy--it
reaffirms his style with some pop ballads and a touch of rock thrown in.
"Mangio Troppa Cioccolata"
What was she thinking when she went for the shaved head look.
Luckily the attempt to emulate Sinead O'Connor or Silvia Salemi (not sure
which), has in no way affected her vocal abilities. Produced
by Pino Daniele and containing songs penned by him, the album reaffirms
the quality and beauty of Giorgia's voice by going through all the paces
and adding a new edge to her sound. I listened to the album six times
while working in the office and found myself drawn to the rich, soulful,
blues-like quality of several of the songs. Not just for Giorgia
fans, but also for anyone who enjoys the beauty of a voice that wraps itself
in music. Add this to your collection if you are looking for
a nice cd--don't mind the hair; it will grow back!
"Per Fortuna Purtroppo"
This album is Irene's third effort and an affirmation of her style
and success. It is a funky album that seems to cover awide array
of musical styles--all of which seem to suit her voice quite nicely.
The title track, Per Fortuna Purtroppo utilizes her vocal style
very well with its sort of funky bluesy qualities. If you have heard
her before, you will not be disappointed. If it is your first time,
you may want to try her previous album for starters.
"Terra e Liberta'" Their third effort does not disappoint fans of this group which reminds me of a cross between Guccini and I Nomadi. The focus of their combat folk is the revolutionary spirit of Latin America. The sound is a mix of celtic and latin with strong vocals. I think the songs may sound better done live when the real spirit and emotion of the words can be played out. Cuts to enjoy are Macondo Express, Il Ritorno di Paddy Garcia, Il Ballo di Aureliano, Qualche Splendido Giorno, Transamerika, Cent'Anni di Solitudine and L'Amore ai Tempi del Caos. A good album for fans and novices.
"EROS"
This is a collection of re-recorded hits and two new cuts. Of
special interest are the duets Musica e' with Andrea Bocelli and
Cose della Vita Tina Turner. It is a must even if you already
have the previously released materials from other releases. It is
fun to listen to the new musical arrangements and vocal maturity on some
of the early pieces.
"Domani e' un altro giorno"
I find myself more intrigued with every Ruggeri album. I also
find myself admiring his multifaceted work more and more. This album
is an exquisite journey through various types of music from rock to a touch
of punk to ballads --all presented with great class and knowledge.
Add this one to your collection. If you do not own any Ruggeri, take
the plunge and discover one of today's best singer songwriters. I
could list the most pleasing cuts on the album but that would mean writing
up all 11 songs on the cd. The melancholy edge to Ruggeri's voice
imparts aspecial quality to the songs. Of note is a duet with Marco
Masini called La gente di cuore.
"Aria & Cielo"
This is another solid effort from a pop singer who has had years of
success. The rock side has been replaced by a softer, mellower pop
sound in many of the pieces. This is a must have for fans and a
possibility for those who want to try something new. The track
Quasi Quasi is receiveing good airplay and positive fan reaction.
Also of note are Aria & Cielo and Brava.
"L'Amore Vuole Amore"
This is a compilation of greatest hits with a few new tracks thrown on for good
measure. I have started to appreciate Zarillo's voice and
songs a little more in recent years. He has some solid songs which cannot be ignored. He is able to impart a
certain emotional quality to the pieces which can feel a part of the work. This is a must have for everyone.
Beginners can get acquainted with some excellent songs.
"Fuochi D'Artificio" (a film by Leonardo Pieraccioni)
Pieraccioni is the hottest director in Italy at the present time. His latest effort after last year's wildly successful "Il Ciclone" is a runaway hit with
audiences and demonstrating its strength by breaking box office records. the film is a lite romantic comedy that
makes you laugh just when you need it most. The soundtrack features many good instrumentals along with a few vocals
including Jovanotti's Bella. If you have the desire to have fun, see the movie (you'll leave wanting the soundtrack).
"Album Concerto"
If we ran a contest for albums of the century, this would be one of
my picks (without reservations). The voices of Francesco Guccini and the
late Augusto Daolio recorded live in concert back in 1979 are as valid
today as they were almost twenty years ago. The songs on the CD are all
hits written by Guccini and performed over the years by him and I Nomadi.
Canzone per un'Amica, Atomica, Noi Non Ci Saremo, Per Fare un Uomo, Primavera
di Praga, Dio e' Morto, Canzone del Bambino nel Vento, Noi and Statale
17 are the songs that make up the album. And while I have to admit that
I have a weakness for the cantautori, this cd will be a welcome addition
to any collection. The songs are from the 60s and 70s but the themes and
ideas have lost none of their power.