Looking at the artwork for Planet Zero, the debut album from Italian progsters Art, I was little unsure of what to expect, doubly so when reading through the plethora of influences they cited. The two just didn’t seem to marry. I suppose that is the nature of prog though, to bring congruence to pieces that should struggle to fit together. My curiosity was heightened, and I knew, whatever the outcome, that this was an album that I wanted to experience.
Planet Zero is an album that draws from a number of sources, as cited on promotional materials that throw out names like Whitesnake, Toto, Billy Idol, Marillion and Deep Purple. And yet, it is an album that is unto itself. A fully fledged audio escapade, it’s the sort of record that invites you to close your eyes and get lost in the world your imagination creates. It is a largely tranquil affair, even at its heaviest, with multi faceted suites, layered with Roberto Minozzi’s deft guitars and the alluring synths of Enrico Lorenzini; all grounded by the subtle rhythmic flourishes of drummer Fabio Tomba and bassist Carlo Vecchi. Denis Borgatti’s presence as vocalist is subdued, preferring to use his voice as another instrument with which to paint on the musical landscape than as a guide to lead you through the songs.
The sprawling seven minute opener “Blind Man” is an enchanting, yet exhausting experience (in the greatest sense of the word). A series of movements, each featuring fantastic interplay between beautiful, otherwordly synths and crunchy, angular riffs; a vast array of moods come and go before Borgatti’s gentle singing glides over the sonic scenery at the five minute mark. It’s quite an introduction, and sees Art setting out their stall right from the off. “Perfect Time” is a little easier to get to grips with, with a wonderful, melodic synth counteracting the heavier chorus, complete with an irresistible vocal line from Borgatti. At this point it’s clear that Art have a knack for dynamic songwriting, striking a balance between varying textures and tempos perfectly. “Four Colours” is carried by acoustic guitars and a synth harmony that’s so sublime, I defy anyone not to get goosebumps when listening. Each and every song has a lush, elegant ambience, even when Minozzi ups the ante with his riffs and Borgatti opts to scream in the gripping crescendo of “Insomnia”. It’s a very difficult quality to capture, so I commend Art in their seemingly effortless ability to do so, even if one or two songs meander around a little in the process.
It should be noted that this is not album for everyone. Despite how accessible it sounds (a factor which might draw some people in), some of the compositions themselves are fairly non linear (as you’d expect from the prog influence). There are tracks that will appeal more to the casual listener than others, but the album is best suited listened to as a whole, such is the cohesion of the record. It also isn’t the most immediately gratifying of experiences, with the depth of the songs slowly revealing themselves with each passing play. It is certainly an album that rewards perseverance, but whether people will give it the necessary time to unfurl is another matter. As the record wears on, it can also become a little one dimensional, with every passing note a different shade of the same few colours. It is an adventurous effort, no doubt, but adventurous within its own niche; a bit more variation in tone would not have gone amiss.
For many, I feel Planet Zero will be one of those albums that is unbeatable when the mood suits. It is a shame that every now and then, the album withdraws itself into the background and drifts by, as at its best, it is an evocative, vibrant affair that is truly captivating. For all the criticisms I may have levelled at Planet Zero, objectively speaking, it is a very strong release. With a touch more consistency and a bit more diversity added to their sound, Art will have all the tools to become a force to be reckoned with in the years to come.
Rating: 8/10 – a high quality prog rock album
Highlights: “Blind Man”, “Perfect Time”, “Scarecrow”
Links: Facebook, Official Website
Planet Zero is available now worldwide, via Sliptrick Records.
