Le Porte non Aperte - Golem. 2013 Italy

And we continue with the 2013 Italian goldmine. Now this one I waited on for quite some time. Both rating sites I belong to, Gnosis and RYM, had pretty much across-the-board low grades. The reviews were mediocre in most places. But there seemed to be a common theme amongst these reviews. "The vocals are awful..." I wondered: Could it be what I think it could be? Is it possible? So I pulled the trigger on the CD and hoped for the best.

And yes, it was just that. What exactly, Tom? Modern ears aren't as accustomed to that particular roughhewn voice, but I recognized it instantly as one of the true examples of the early 70s Italian sound: The vocals of Delirium, Odissea, and Jumbo. And the first group listed is probably the best guidepost here: Delirium. For years now, I've been screaming at the top of the mountain that Delirium's Lo Scemo e Il Villaggio and III: Viaggio Negli Arcipelaghi del Tempo are some of the real gems from the entire scene. Le Porte non Aperte has tapped into that well. Oh Hallelujah! I thought this was a strain that had gone extinct. The turn on the dime rhythms, fluttering flute, and yes those psychotic gruff vocals. Have no worry, the usual keyboards and guitar are in full force as well. There's a touch of Path of Dreams era Garden Wall here too, which is just another plus for me. And, yes, I do hear some early Osanna as well - especially in some of the bluesy jams (oh you don't think of Osanna in that way? I do, because that's what they were in essence). I love this album, and along with Ingranaggi della Valle, are probably my top two Italian picks for the year. That's saying something given the competition.

I can only imagine if Le Porte non Aperte studied Jumbo's Vietato... album and made a try at that style. Oh my heart be still.

Ownership: CD: 2013 Ma.Ra.Cash

12/21/13 (new entry)