Masterpiece of mellow Italian prog
BENJAMIN MILER | Veneta, Oregon | 10/25/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This album, sometimes known as Principe di un Giorno, was originally released in 1976 on the Grog label (but actually recorded in 1974). This was their only album released during their lifetime, but a couple of previously unreleased albums did surface in the 1990s on the Mellow Records label. Celeste, like Museo Rosenbach stemmed from a band called Il Sistema (whose recordings also surfaced on Mellow Records in the 90s), but musically they are very different. Museo Rosenbach went for a more heavy prog direction, often getting compared with the likes of Il Balletto di Bronzo, Biglietto per L'Inferno, or Semiramis. Celeste's music, on the other hand is mellow Italian prog, on the acoustic side. If you imagine early King Crimson with Storia di un Minuto-era PFM, then you get an idea how they're like. The vocals are very much in the style of PFM. Lots of Mellotron, flute, some synthesizers and the occasional Farfisa electric piano, and of course plenty of acoustic guitar. Drums aren't used that much here. All of the songs are of the same quality, but it's worth noting that Aldo de Scalzi guests on this album. He's the brother of Vittorio de Scalzi of New Trolls (who ran the Grog label, as well as Magma Records). Aldo de Scalzi was also a member of Picchio dal Pozzo (who also recorded for Grog, like Celeste and Corte dei Miracoli). Celeste's self-entitled album really doesn't take many listens to get in to. But it's a well produced and well-played album, and it's little wonder why many people call it one of their Italian favorites. If you like PFM, early King Crimson, and romantic prog in general, you're certain to enjoy this album as well."
Track Listings (11) - Disc #1