The Good Man, by Italian keyboardist and composer Alex Carpani, a CD released at the end of 2024, was a real surprise for me, truly beautiful.
A sound influenced by the monsters of Italian and international symphonic rock, with a focus on mellotron, for a recognizable, signature prog rock.
The album consists of two long suites that tell a conceptual story about the human mind and emotions, characterized by sophisticated and complex compositions, with both instrumental and vocal sections.
To describe the album's narrative, I rely on the lyrics taken in full from the official album description:
"The album is composed of two long suites and represents an uninterrupted narrative, an experience lived through the folds and fragilities of the human mind, the infinite nuances of our emotions and feelings. Constantly balanced and at the mercy of our limitations and weaknesses, our lives are fueled by the strength of our passions and our incessant need to live, know, and believe in something. A good man is nothing more than a tiny paper boat floating, trying not to sink, in a boundless ocean, between storms and gigantic waves, never knowing his destination."
Musically, the album blends classic progressive rock influences with contemporary and modern production, with a contemporary sound that still features complex riffs, sweeping keyboard parts, and atmospheric moments. Carpani's voice is passionate and moving, and he's joined by guest mezzo-soprano Valentina Vanini, who makes a significant impact on the album.
Guests also include Alessio Alberghini on soprano saxophone and Emiliano Fantuzzi on guitar.
I find the synergy between the keyboards and the powerful rhythm section fantastic, the stratospheric vocals, and the odd and syncopated tempos "as prog dictates."
A beautiful album that deserves to be listened to again and again. Excellent production, beautiful artwork.
If it were to be released on vinyl, I would definitely pick it up, and I'll definitely explore their previous works.
Recommended!!!
Note: All links to the musicians' works are in the TAGS under the article title or on the "Artists" page.
Tracklist
Amnesiac (28:40)
1. On a Train (2:10)
2. Perfect Chaos (4:41)
3. Flashbacks (1:30)
4. The Edge of My Mind (3:57)
5. Diamond in the Rough (1:55)
6. Past Life (4:21)
7. Heart Calling (2:51)
8. As Light Returns (3:42)
9. End of the Day (4:41)
Good and Evil (28:24)
1. Lost Frequencies (0:57)
2. The Flow (4:13)
3. P.T.S.D. (3:52)
4. Stillness and Ecstasy (2:15)
5. Flirting with Darkness (4:11)
6. Mystical (5:39)
7. Leaving the Path (1:32)
8. Masquerade (2:42)
9. Everything Falls into Place (3:09)
Duration 57:04
LineUp
- Alex Carpani - vocals, keyboards, virtual orchestra, drum machine, synthesized bass, virtual guitars
- Bruno Farinelli - drums
- Giambattista Giorgi - bass
- Emiliano Fantuzzi - guitars
With:
- Alessio Alberghini - soprano saxophone
- Valentina Vanini - mezzo-soprano vocals
