Ataraxia/ Autunna et sa Rose - Odos Eis Ouranon-La Via Verso Il Cielo 2CD (Equilbrium Music)

This is a nice treat from Portuguese label Eqvilibrium who turn an blessed eye on the Italian neo-classical league, pairing up two outstanding names such as Ataraxia and Autunna et sa Rose for a luxurius double-CD release that is bound to be a must-have for those who admire these two groups. Sparked by a live performance by both bands in a church in Italy  back in May 2003, this release incorporates the songs that were performed that evening, re-recorded in the all-new arrangements that were worked out specially for that night. It was an acoustic evening and Ataraxia propose on CD 1 -Strange Lights- a very special selection spanning many of their releases (including the deleted Orlando and Des Paroles Blanches), graced by flute, classic guitar, piano and a range of acoustic percussion. Beautiful and passionate as ever, the material acquires a more intimate dimension, with a touch of dramatic added by some of the piano arrangements. It's worth mentioning that two out of the twelve tracks on offer are new titles and show that there's yet a lot more to expect from this unique band, with over 15 acclaimed releases already in their curriculum. Autunna et sa Rose have chosen to propose their 11-track set as originally recorded during the concert, under the title Logos on CD2. It's a piano and cello performance, alternating dramatic moments to pure neo-classicism aided by a beautiful female soprano, to counterpart the male austere vocals and recitation that characterises many of the songs featured. I think this essential, stripped-down format is Autunna's native format, the one in which they live at best and are able to conjure up the strongest emotive power. Limited at 2000 copies, this is not a disc to let pass by unnoticed! www.ataraxia.net - www.ederisia.com - www.equilibriummusic.com

Gianfri