Paolo Siani ft. Nuova Idea
Faces With No Traces

THE REVIEW

Nuova Idea is a "historical" group from the legendary Italian progressive season: their "In The Beginning" is, in its own way, a gem worth rediscovering. Now, following in the footsteps of many illustrious "returns" – Latte e Miele, Un Biglietto per l’Inferno, La Locanda delle Fate, Errata Corrige, Il Rovescio della Medaglia to name a few – the drummer and composer of Nuova Idea Paolo Siani has set up a nostalgic operation that, in reality, looks to the future: he surrounded himself with numerous and talented collaborators, resurrecting the glorious brand. This is the second album by Paolo Siani following the previous and commendable "Castles, Wings, Stories & Dreams" and the DVD "Nuova Idea – Live Anthology". The new work is entitled "Faces With No Traces" and features, as mentioned, the participation of as many as 21 musicians, including old friends Ricky Belloni on guitar, Marco Zoccheddu on piano, and Giorgio Usai on Hammond.

The initial “Intro Duduk” is characterized by the evocative sounds of the Duduk, an ancient ethnic instrument of the Armenian musical tradition, played by Gevorg Dabhayan, an expert local musician. The following “No One’s Born A Hero” transports us to a magical atmosphere where an ancient legend and a battle between a farmer and a giant are narrated. With “Welcome Aboard” we board a mythical ship that will take us traveling through the Cosmos and visit unknown territories: a truly thrilling track. In “Black Angel’s Claws,” Paolo Siani plays all the instruments, giving the music an oriental and vaguely psychedelic flavor. “Rock Star” is instead a hard-rock piece driven by Ricky Belloni on guitar, Roberto Tiranti on bass and vocals. After the cover of “Post War Saturday Echo” by Quatermass, it’s the turn of “Three Things” where the cello of Eva Feudoi Shoo stands out. The closing instrumental “E’riu” is dedicated to Celtic music and Ireland: after the initial orchestral part, the music turns into a frenetic dance featuring Marco Zoccheddu on accordion.

Ultimately, “Faces With No Traces” is a good album that will surely appeal to lovers of prog and good music.