Moogg ~ Italy

Italian Luxury Style (2016)

With a name like Italian Luxury Style, one could be forgiven in thinking that Moogg has abandoned progressive rock for the Shibuyu-kei style, similar to Pizzicato Five and Fantastic Plastic Machine. Well, noooo, but it's not entirely unfair to tag some of this as kitschy. There is a cool jet-set late 60s vibe, mixed with a slick 70s jazz funk tone throughout. All mixed in with their patented Italian take on the Canterbury sound. This is one of those albums that sounds very familiar, and yet is entirely unique, which is quite an accomplishment actually. Multiple listens reveals something new every time, and there's a subtle complexity that lurks underneath what seems like gloss - similar to some of the best 70s fusion artists. Melody is Moogg's strength, and they are anxious to exploit. Another strong outing from Moogg, perhaps a step down from the awesome debut, but it's clear the band is stretching out a bit here and taking chances.

Ownership: 2016 Mellow (CD). Booklet with band photo, lyrics, and recording details.

12/8/16 (acquired / review); 11/02/25

  

Le Ore I Giorni gli Anni (2011)

There isn't much of a Canterbury tradition in Italy, which should make sense given that the genre is entirely an English invention. Even still, one can find plenty of examples in nearby France or The Netherlands. Sure, I've heard bands such as Picchio dal Pozzo mentioned in this context. But that band is really their own entity, if we're entirely honest here. Moogg, on the other hand, draws directly from the deep well that produced Caravan, National Health, mid 70s Camel, and Hatfield & the North. The fat sounds as generated by the Fender Rhodes, Moog synthesizer (duh), fuzz guitar and bass leave no doubt where the music is coming from. Add to that a vocalist who has a soft affected tone like Richard Sinclair, but sings in Italian, and a strong melodic sense - well there's just no other conclusion to make. Moogg are the best new band on Mellow in many years. If you love the Canterbury sound as much as I do, then this will be one of the highlights of your 2010 decade collection.

Ownership: 2011 Mellow (CD)

1/25/13 (acquired / review)

1/25/13 (new entry)