Supertramp
Even in the Quietest Moments...

THE REVIEW

A solitary, snow-covered piano in the middle of the Rocky Mountains.

An image that evokes solitude, a desire to escape, the search for oneself.

The mountain teaches silence, teaches us to live with our thoughts, with our weaknesses. Who knows, maybe this is the reason that pushes the Supertramp to leave beloved Albion and take refuge among the peaks of Colorado. Or perhaps it is more likely the quest for the much-desired commercial success, only hinted at with the two previous works. The fact remains that it's still not the moment of glory; another two years will pass before they produce that "Breakfast in America" which will establish them in music history and henceforth will allow them to have lunch and dinner overseas.

"Even In The Quietest Moments" still follows the path undertaken by its predecessors, a successful musical formula, fresh and refined, in perfect balance between author pop and progressive. An introspective album, with soft atmospheres and delicate textures, which for once sets aside the characteristic Wurlitzer sound and favors acoustic parts. Otherwise, it is the usual encounter/clash of the two creative minds of the group, Rick Davies and Roger Hodgson, with the latter in particular leaving a more distinct imprint.

With the successful single that opens the album, "Give a Little Bit", led by an acoustic guitar always in the foreground, a refrain that indelibly stamps itself on your mind, and a sax solo adding that touch of elegance that never hurts. But Hodgson's skill as a composer doesn't stop at the more easy-listening side, as he is also the author of the more inspired compositions. Starting with the delicate title-track, a ballad with folk roots, with a clarinet crafting a nostalgic melody amid the background chirping of birds. "Babaji" is instead a track that highlights the harmonious falsetto voice of the multi-instrumentalist, supported by a driving rhythm dictated by the piano. The piece is dedicated to the namesake guru, encountered during our previous trip to India.

However, it is the concluding "Fool's Overture" that reaches the emotional peaks of this work. A long suite that sways between smooth piano passages and more symphonic and rhythmical moments, while the cryptic lyrics talk to us about the inability of man to learn from his own mistakes. Completing the album are Davies' tracks, among which the intense "From Now On" stands out, following the rhythm and blues vein of its author. Although it is often overlooked and classified as interlocutory and uncertain, "Even In The Quietest Moments" is, for me, an album of absolute value, confirming the magical moment of the group. For a good five years, Supertramp didn't miss a beat and were the Lords of Pop. Maximum respect.