IV Luna
D'Incanto

THE REVIEW

The IV Luna were born and grew up in Rome; in a fertile and vibrant musical environment that continues to be preceded by the usual blind and "worldly" foreign influence (who said Metalcore?). Two brothers, Michele and Luciano Chessa on guitars, meet bassist Andrea Caminiti and drummer Alex Giuliani to put together their updated and tributary vision of the great Italian progressive era, expressing it, however, with more modern sounds and more purely prog metal.

Musicians deeply connected to all that the '70s offered best: superb technical expertise, genuine artistic sensitivity, and a humility unheard of these days (who would ask 200 euros, 50 each, without food and lodging for a concert, with two albums behind them and a decade-long career?). After their first demo-cd ("Libera Mente" released in 2000) IV Luna joined Blond Records of folkman Enrico Capuano, managing to produce an excellent product: this "D'Incanto" in 2003. An album that at times shows truly unexpected maturity; worthy of comparison with the best progressive metal has produced in almost two decades of history. The first part of the album is first-rate: the instrumental "Allucinazioni" is the clear and eloquent demonstration of class by the Roman combo, "D'Incanto" makes one dream and deeply moves with its beautiful lyrics, which remain at high levels in all the compositions.

"Il Dono D'Efesto" and "Dictator Media" slightly soften the tones; unfolding with a soft and delicate approach that emphasizes their emotional charge and prepare the listener for "A Piedi Nudi," an entirely acoustic song featuring the caressing and melancholic voice of Monica Proietti Tuzia. With "Petili Di Cenere," IV Luna reach their artistic peak concerning this album; indeed, in this piece, we find everything: from the very high variety and technical musical quality, to the poignant lyrics tinged with melancholy splendidly interpreted by the good Michele Chessa. The bridge preceding the solo is pure catharsis. After a brief and fascinating interlude, "1945," follows "Ultima Eco," in my opinion, the weakest track due to a repetitiveness that corrupts its creative intentions, "Sull'Aria" definitely raises the level of emotional involvement. After another beautiful interlude, "1978" we reach the two concluding tracks: "Isterica Realtà" and "Favole." The former is decidedly more "aggressive" compared to the stylistic approach adopted by the group (not surprisingly featuring vocals by Flegias from Necrodeath); the latter sees the precious collaboration of Mirco Cicconi on flute, giving an ancient charm to their sound.

In conclusion, we are faced with a mature and truly well-executed work, despite some drops in tone that in no way affect its overall value. A band to follow with loyalty, in my opinion, they totally deserve it.