Soul Takers

   The unexpected departure of my beloved vocalist Gianluigi Girardi did leave me rather worried, as I believed him to be essential component of sisters Badalini's band. Thankfully though, the show has only partially confirmed my fears, as it resulted in the band leaning towards a heavier sound, thus sacrificing part of the more prog tendencies, which were kept alive by the presence of Jari Pilati's violin and Federica's keyboards, who, however, saw her instrument knocked down to serve as background for Francesca's guitar, well supported by explosive Andrea Grumelli (drums) and Mauro de Brasi (bass). I will not comment on vocalist Dino Brentoli's performance for two main reasons: first and foremost, this was his first concert with the band, and he certainly hadn't had the chance to fully integrate himself in the band's sound yet. The second reason would be the great effort showed by Dino, hinting at a far greater potential than what could be seen on stage. Must see them again!

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Dark Horizon

   Dark Horizon on the other hand are experiencing a period of exponential growth. Keyboardist Alessandro Battini's band, well sided by axeman Daniele Mandelli and a new and flexible rythm section composed of bassist Davide Marino and drummer Luca Capelli, has greatly benefited from the arrival of new, skilled vocalist Roberto Quassolo, who has marked a significant breakthrough in quality for the band (don't hate me for saying this). Similarly, the band's sound has been enriched with heavy and intelligently placed, deliciously 70's hard rock influences, which, blended almost perfectly with their debut album's classical symphonic power metal, has brought to the creation of some new material which, I daresay, is of divine quality, also thanks to the interpretation qualities of Daniele, great performer on stage, who has focused the band's growth. Special mention also goes to Alessandro, who was able to overcome with one move all the limits today's symphonic metal is stuck on, seeking arrangements that often smelled of Queensryche and Uriah Heep. Truly excellent!

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Skylark

   It had been several years since I'd last seen talented keyboardist Eddy Antonini's band, and in the light of their new excellent album, I must admit I was really looking forward to seeing them. I have to admit I was impressed with the band's performance: it is undeniable that guitarist Fabrizio Romani, drummer Carlos Cantatore, bassist Roberto Potenti, as well as Eddy himself, have offered proof once again of their superb musicianship. The competent and pretty new vocalist Kiara did not however seem at ease on stage, even though that was probably because of the very poor conditions she was forced to sing in, as well as the fact that it was the first time she sang those songs live. It has to be said to her credit that she was able in the more melodic songs to reveal all her skill, well supported by a remarkable physique. Good job anyway!

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Ahrcana

   I had feared that my belly-brother and absolutely wild vocalist Halley's departure would have irrepairably damaged my "favourite bashers"... but I was absolutely taken aback as I found myself fronted with a charismatic and experienced new vocalist, Paolo Carboni (ex Ahrcansiel, Metal Warrior, Creepin' Death), who has added that old fashioned, healthy heavy rock sound, without altering the band's original devastating power. Competent axemen Alex Castelnovo and Franz Montonati, bassist Emanuele Coccato and drummer Gianluca Luci may find that this new hard rock sound will enable them to make the long-sought breakthrough they need. No need to reiterate my enjoyment of the band's show, who were absolutely spotless technically, but who might wish to work on their stage presence a little more (apart from charismatic Paolo Carboni of course, who performed superbly). Well done!

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Desdemona

   Myself being a High Priest of the Yoghi Bear Cult, I could but fall to the feet of his earthly incarnation, Christian Rosso, who by divine (or bearish) will is the axeman of this band which of course counts among its lines the best vocalist in the italian metal scene, Andrea Marchisio, who is certainly deserving of far greater audiences. Worthy of mention was also the performance of decent, minimalist but essential mr.Foca on keyboards, the flexible rythm section made up of drummer Maurizio Anello and bassist Alessandro "figlio dei fiori in ritardo" Mussa.

Bullshit aside, it is no mistery why I consider Desdemona one of the few stable points of the very dry italian and foreign metal scene, thanks to a sound which perfectly blends power, speed, heavy, progressive and melodic metal, all enhanced by the incredible 70's riffs of Christian's super-heavy axe, who isn't afraid to show off with some virtuoso material from time to time. Shame about the poor conditions they (and the other bands) were forced to play in. The fact that they were the last band on the night's lineup probably contributed to sadden them, as they were left to play in front of a select few of brave fans who remained. The unfavourable conditions did not, however, prevent them from offering their audience a sublime show, perfect from every point of view, which did not fail to satisfy the few people left. Simply the best in town!

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