Odessa (Italy)

Formed in 1998 by Lorenzo GIOVAGNOLI (vocals and keyboards), Odessa was completed with three of
prog's finest musicians on guitar, bass, and drums. The band presents original compositions as well as covers. The music is deeply rooted in the history of Italian progressive rock. Of particular interest is Lorenzo's voice singing in Italian with a strong voice, very similar to the great Demetrio Stratos, the late singer for Area.

This is Odessa's second album, but it's been 10 years since their debut! Some heaviness at times but there really is quite a bit of variety on this one.The vocals are probably the "make or break it" for most listeners i'm sure.He sings in a higher register and is almost shrill at times, like his vocals are straining.Vocals are in Italian mostly but two tracks are sung in English. "Final Day" really got me excited the first time i heard the intro.I thought i had discovered a new favourite band.It's so melodic and heavy but when it settles 1 1/2 minutes in and piano,organ and vocals come in,suddenly the magic is gone for me.Thankfully it ends much like it started. Still a top three track for me. "Viene La Sera" is a good sounding song with prominant crisp drumming throughout. The guitar 3 1/2 minutes in is the highlight. "Taxi" is led by drums and vocals until it turns jazzy 3 1/2 minutes in.Not a fan of this one. "Compra" is uptempo with a variety of keyboards with vocals that seem yelled much of the time.It's ok.
"Cometa Rossa" is where the vocalist does his Demetrio Stratos impersonation.I remember saying "What?" the first time i heard those familiar vocal melodies that Demetrio is famous for.This is an excellent track regardless and a top three for me.It gets heavier 2 minutes in. "Senza Fiato" is an instrumental and my other top three tune.Just an impressive instrumental display here as they let loose.It settles 2 minutes in with some nice guitar work to follow. "Piccolo Mio Sole" is laid back with reserved vocals.More passion a minute in.The guitar soars before 3 minutes. Depeche Toi is fairly heavy with lots going on.Guitar takes the lead and starts to light it up. A calm when vocals arrive.Great sound 3 minutes in. "Leila" opens with the focus on the vocals then it turns poppy.Yikes! The contrasts continue. "Going South" is a powerful organ led tune to end it. 3 stars is the max i can give here,but i can see people really going crazy for this album.
"Stazione Getsemani" has a variety of approaches, which are all interesting. Perhaps the most interesting is the very bluesy keyboard solo done on Hammond organ, with the guitar, bass, and drums playing support to their melodies. This album is a definite AREA influence to Odessa's sound. A band that must be followed with maximum attention in the future.