Osanna

The Profile

Osanna are a Neapolitan progressive rock group formed in 1971, known for theatrical stage makeup and a fusion of rock, jazz and Neapolitan folk. They debuted with L’uomo, collaborated with Luis Bacalov on the Milano Calibro 9 soundtrack (Preludio Tema Variazioni Canzona), and released the landmark Palepoli before Landscape of Life and, after regrouping, Suddance. Later activity includes live and studio releases such as Rosso Rock.

Formed in Naples in 1971; noted for theatrical concerts with painted faces. Classic line-up on Palepoli: Lino Vairetti (vocals, organ, keyboards, harmonica), Elio D’Anna (sax, flute), Danilo Rustici (guitars), Lello Brandi (bass), Massimiliano/Massimo Guarino (drums, percussion). Albums covered in reviews: L’uomo (1971), Preludio Tema Variazioni Canzona – soundtrack to Fernando Di Leo’s Milano Calibro 9 with Luis Bacalov (1972), Palepoli (1973), Landscape of Life (1974), Suddance (1978, CBS), and the live Rosso Rock (recorded at Club Città, Kawasaki, with Tokyo Vieille Ensemble Orchestra). They organized the 1973 Be-In festival in Naples; internal disputes led to a split, with a 1977 regrouping without Elio D’Anna (replaced by Fabrizio D’Angelo) and Enzo Petrone on bass. Reviews also note early festival accolades (1971 Festival of Avant-Garde Music) and support slots in the Genesis Foxtrot era.

DeBaser’s reviewers celebrate Osanna’s adventurous prog, theatrical flair, and deep Neapolitan roots. Palepoli is hailed as a career peak, while L’uomo and the Bacalov-assisted Milano Calibro 9 soundtrack show range. Landscape of Life earns praise despite internal frictions, and Suddance closes the first era with southern pride. Recent live work like Rosso Rock reaffirms lasting class.