Osanna - 1973 - Palepoli (Rock Progressivo Italiano)

Osanna's Palepoli: A Masterpiece of Italian Progressive Rock

Osanna was one of the most influential and original bands in the Italian progressive rock scene of the early 1970s. Their third album, Palepoli, released in 1973, is widely considered as their masterpiece and one of the best albums in the genre. Palepoli is a concept album that explores the ancient and modern history of Naples, the city where the band members came from. The title refers to the pre-Greek settlement of Naples, which was later renamed by the Romans as Neapolis (new city).

The album consists of three long tracks that showcase the band's eclectic and adventurous musical style, blending rock, jazz, classical, folk and Mediterranean influences. The first track, \"Oro Caldo\" (Hot Gold), is a 18-minute epic that depicts the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD and its aftermath. The track features powerful guitar riffs, dynamic drumming, soaring flute solos and dramatic vocals by Lino Vairetti. The second track, \"Stanza CittÃ \" (City Room), is a short interlude that transitions from the ancient to the modern Naples. The track consists of a reversed tape loop of a previous song by Osanna, \"There Will Be Time\", from their soundtrack album for the movie Milano Calibro 9. The third track, \"Animale Senza Respiro\" (Breathless Animal), is a 21-minute suite that portrays the social and political turmoil of contemporary Naples. The track alternates between aggressive and melodic sections, featuring complex arrangements, synthesizer effects, saxophone improvisations and passionate vocals.

Palepoli is a remarkable album that showcases Osanna's creativity and originality. The album is a musical journey through the past and present of Naples, a city rich in culture and contradictions. Palepoli is a must-listen for any fan of progressive rock and Italian music.

Osanna was formed in 1971 by four musicians from Naples: Lino Vairetti (vocals, guitar, keyboards), Danilo Rustici (guitar, keyboards, vocals), Lello Brandi (bass) and Massimo Guarino (drums, percussion, vocals). They were joined by Elio D'Anna (saxophone, flute, vocals), who had previously played with the jazz-rock band Showmen. Osanna was one of the first bands in Italy to adopt a theatrical and flamboyant style, wearing costumes and makeup on stage. They also experimented with different musical genres and instruments, such as synthesizers, mellotrons and steel guitars.

Osanna's first album, L'uomo (The Man), was released in 1971 and featured a blend of hard rock, folk and classical influences. The album was well received by critics and fans, and included the hit single \"L'amore vincerÃ di nuovo\" (Love Will Win Again). The same year, Osanna composed and performed the soundtrack for the crime movie Milano Calibro 9 (Milan Caliber 9), directed by Fernando Di Leo. The soundtrack album was also successful and contained some of Osanna's most famous songs, such as \"Preludio\", \"Tema\" and \"Variazione III\".

In 1972, Osanna toured in Italy alongside Genesis, one of the most popular progressive rock bands in the world. The tour was a great opportunity for Osanna to showcase their talent and originality to a wider audience. The tour also inspired Osanna to create their next album, Palepoli, which was released in 1973 and is widely considered as their masterpiece. Palepoli is a concept album that explores the ancient and modern history of Naples, the city where the band members came from. The title refers to the pre-Greek settlement of Naples, which was later renamed by the Romans as Neapolis (new city). aa16f39245