tom traubert

 Is it still possible in 2008, in this Italy, to take everyday reality, turn it into poetry, and put it all into a pop/folk song?

 This album is here to say yes.

Baustelle's album Amen masterfully blends everyday Italian realities with poetic songwriting. It challenges the listener through themes of neoliberalism, social hardship, and cultural memory. The album's uplifting melodies and catchy choruses deliver an artful pop experience. Francesco Bianconi, alongside collaborators Rachele Bastreghi and Claudio Brasini, crafts a mature, socially aware work. Amen stands out as both a reflection of its times and a singable pop record. Listen to Baustelle's Amen and experience poetic pop that captures the spirit of modern Italy.

 “A precious collection of original songs, songs that speak of ancient village stories as well as everyday provincial life.”

 “Balanced... between the ambiance of a Parisian bistro and a tavern on the shores of the Venice lagoon.”

Piccola Bottega Baltazar’s second album proves a unique and authentic journey through Italian folk and singer-songwriter traditions. Featuring original songs with poetic lyrics and rich instrumentation, it balances influences from jazz, tango, and cabaret. The album reflects deep respect for cultural roots and musical craftsmanship. Highly praised for its intelligence, taste, and passionate performances. Explore the heartfelt and skillfully crafted songs of Piccola Bottega Baltazar – listen now to Canzoni In Forma Di Fiore!

 We are faced with an imposing work, a fresco of humanity and poetry that’s not even easy to grasp in its entirety.

 Each consists of distinct and perfectly autonomous works, characterized by its own particular mood.

Tom Waits' Orphans is an extensive three-album box set compiling rare, unreleased, and soundtrack songs, divided into distinct moods: bluesy Brawlers, piano-driven Bawlers, and experimental Bastards. The set showcases Waits' storytelling brilliance and musical diversity, enhanced by strong collaborations and thoughtful packaging. It's a monumental work capturing the depth and variety of Waits' artistry. Fans and newcomers alike will find rich, vivid stories filled with emotion and poetic power. Explore Tom Waits' Orphans for a deep, emotional, and unique musical experience—listen to the stories that only he can tell.

 This album continues and takes to the extremes the artistic discourse started in 2001 with Songs From The West Coast.

 Elton John and Bernie Taupin prove that they are still one of the greatest songwriting duos in the history of pop music.

Elton John's album The Captain And The Kid offers a beautifully simple and heartfelt collection of songs, showcasing a mature return to his classic piano-driven style. The album reflects on the long artistic partnership between John and Bernie Taupin with nostalgia and fresh arrangements. Its storytelling spans over thirty years of their career and personal life. The review praises the songwriting, sobriety of instrumentation, and emotional depth, calling it a worthy follow-up to Songs From The West Coast. Listen to Elton John's The Captain And The Kid and experience a timeless journey of music and memories.

 "The result is surprisingly beautiful, blending classical lieder with original compositions seamlessly."

 "'L'ombra della luce' is a universal prayer laid on a musical carpet of rare beauty, only listening can provide justice."

This review explores Franco Battiato's 1991 album 'Come Un Cammello In Una Grondaia,' highlighting its unique fusion of classical orchestra and synthesizers. It praises the album's mystical themes, the reinterpretation of 19th-century lieder, and the powerful original songs like 'Povera Patria.' Recorded at Abbey Road, the album successfully breaks musical barriers and delivers emotional depth. The reviewer notes the album as a high point in Battiato's mystic trilogy. Listen to Franco Battiato's mystical and genre-defying masterpiece now and explore his unique musical world!

 "The Great Dream is a double album, partly new songs, partly old pieces rearranged and harmonized with the new material."

 "This is a central album... an excellent starting point for those wishing to venture for the first time into the now extensive production of the songwriter."

Il Grande Sogno is Roberto Vecchioni’s ambitious double album blending new compositions with reimagined past works, unified by thoughtful arrangements. The cover art by Andrea Pazienza adds cultural depth and iconic status. The album serves as both a reflection on Vecchioni’s career and a gateway for newcomers, despite some frustrating track listing issues caused by record company errors. Explore Roberto Vecchioni’s Il Grande Sogno to experience a poetic blend of past and present songs enriched by iconic artwork and masterful arrangements.

 "For the first time, delicate and profound topics such as the search for the Sacred are tackled by Battiato without hesitation, with complex simplicity and poetry."

 "The album closes with 'L’oceano di silenzio' where a balance between research, popular simplicity, and classical austerity seems almost magically achieved."

Fisiognomica marks a turning point in Franco Battiato's career, showcasing his shift towards spirituality and poetic depth. Released after a brief hiatus, the album combines sophisticated melodies with profound themes like the search for the Divine. Highlights include the iconic 'E ti vengo a cercare' and other deeply emotional tracks. This work is praised for its delicate beauty and meditative atmosphere, culminating in a timeless masterpiece. Discover the spiritual beauty of Franco Battiato's Fisiognomica—listen now and immerse yourself in its poetic and transcendent melodies.

 "These albums were created with a kind of 'serious lightness,' meaning fundamentally for fun but not carelessly—far from it."

 "Those who loved Battiato’s works from the ’80s will certainly find a familiar atmosphere here and reconsider the indispensable contribution that Giusto Pio made."

Giusto Pio's album 'Restoration', co-written with Franco Battiato, features instrumental tracks blending classical violin with pop-rock. It offers a more cohesive and consistent experience than its predecessor. Notable for its 'serious lightness,' the album delivers pleasant and moving melodies. Fans of Battiato's 1980s work will appreciate the familiar atmosphere and Pio’s crucial role in that unique musical era. Discover Giusto Pio’s Restoration and experience the unique blend of classical violin and pop-rock inspired by Franco Battiato's magic.

 “Happiness?” is an excellent album, well-played and generally well-written rock d’auteur.

 The opening track, “Nazis 1994,” where Taylor directly attacks neo-Nazi movements, makes this album much more 'singer-songwriter' than those of the original group.

Roger Taylor, Queen's drummer, delivers a mature and well-crafted rock album with 'Happiness?'. The album balances Queen-like sounds with distinct political and personal themes. It includes strong social commentary and intimate tributes. Overall, it's a solid, artistically evolved work that appeals to both Queen fans and a broader audience. Dive into Roger Taylor's 'Happiness?' and experience a unique, mature rock journey blending powerful rhythms with sharp social messages.

 It could be summarily described as an instrumental Battiato with the violin soloist instead of the voice.

 Ultimately it is a shame that this album was never reissued on CD and thus is relegated to the vintage music market at vinyl fairs.

Giusto Pio's 1982 album Legione Straniera presents an instrumental pop record heavily influenced by his collaboration with Franco Battiato. The album features a blend of violin-led melodies, experimental touches, and contributions from notable musicians like Filippo Destrieri and Alberto Radius. Despite modest commercial success, several tracks stand out as beautiful and memorable. The record remains a rare collector's item as it has not been reissued on CD. Explore Giusto Pio's unique violin-led pop album Legione Straniera and rediscover a hidden gem from the early 80s Italian music scene.