If a band calls themselves Moogg, it's suggesting that their music is created on Moog-synthesizers. However, that's not entirely the case with this Italian band from Brescia formed in 2003 as a trio consisting of Antonio Gafforini (keyboards), Marco Dolfini (drums) and Rosario 'Penny' Rampulla (bass). In 2004 guitarist Ivan Vanoglio joined the band and so they became a quartet. At the same time drummer Dolfini took the role of lead singer. Now their music was no longer completely instrumental. In 2007 the group released its first eponymous demo containing self-written material. In 2010 Rampulla left the band; he was replaced by Gianluca Avanzati. A year later they recorded their debut album Le Ore I Giorni Gli Anni (The hours, days and years) for the Mellow Records label. When you listen to the eight compositions on this debut album it's easy to conclude that their music is a mixture of jazz-rock, fusion and progressive rock. This blend certainly appeals to me. It wasn't difficult either to mention some names to which their music refers. I several times heard hints of Caravan, Hatfield & The North, PFM, Chick Corea, Return To Forever, Herbie Hancock, Freddie Hubbard, Tony Williams, Billy Cobham and Weather Report. The songs they wrote provide the musicians enough room to show their talents on the instruments. From time to time we can enjoy strong solos both on the keyboards and the electric guitars. Also the bassist gets enough room to show that he's an excellent player. Thanks to the rather strong Italian vocals, the band has enough variety in their music. All tracks are worthwhile listening to, but I guess that Welfare Botanico can be seen as the highlight on Le Ore I Giorni Gli Anni. This track contains the most progressive rock influences. Due to the use of a Mellotron and a perfect climax you sometimes think that you're listening to a piece of music written by PFM in the seventies. The aforementioned names should give an indication whether you'll decide to buy this debut made by Moogg or not. I liked Le Ore I Giorni Gli Anni a lot and I'm already looking forward to their next release. **** Henri Strik (edited by Peter Willemsen) Where to buy? |
