Rocky's Filj
Storie di uomini e non

And here is another fleeting star of the vast landscape of Italian Prog-Rock from the '70s.

This group, led by the singer Rocky Rossi (don’t worry, no relation to Vasco), released only one album dated 1973, titled "Storie di uomini e non".

Maybe it’s because I have a weakness for progressive bands without keyboards (or at least those that use them sparingly), but I really liked this album and personally consider it one of the best albums of the lesser-known national Prog.

Rocky's voice is unique, not always excellent, but often slightly hoarse and edgy, which I like. As I pointed out earlier, the absence of keyboards leaves room for the guitar and saxophone: the two instruments are free to intertwine and indulge in duets and solos, as in the long opening track: the beautiful and particularly inspired "L'ultima spiaggia". A special mention should go to a true gem which is the following "Il soldato": melancholic and poignant, characterized by poetic and desperate lyrics. The concluding and lively "Martino" is also excellent. In between, there’s the instrumental "E" and the pleasant "Io Robot".

Regarding some news on what happened after the release of this album, I read that the group disbanded due to legal issues faced by one of the members, and they later recorded a poorly received LP in 1979, which led to their eventual breakup. Rocky unfortunately passed away in a car accident in 1985.

If you enjoy jazz-rock or progressive from our beloved old boot-shaped country and are tireless explorers of the musical universe, you might be pleasantly surprised by listening to this fine work.