ATARAXIA IN MEXICO
(by Thaïs Yáñez)


A huge castle-like building which once served as a Fort in the war against French Rule and later on as a prision, the Instituto Cultural Poblano, located some 120 kilometers from Mexico City, had to be the best setting for Italy's own Ataraxia concert. And indeed it was.

Last November 23, 2002, the City of Angels, as it is known, welcomed the "Evanescent Warriors and Wandering Clerics" and over 2000 folllowers. In that cold Moonless but starry night happened the closest to a ritual I have seen this year.

The magical medieval ages were recreated not only by Ataraxia's music, but also by Lorenzo's dancing performances on stage. An umbrella, a Venetian mask, a brave knight against the unfaithful, where unfaithful means loveless and with no honour. All this protecting the Kingdom from negative energy and evil spirits.

There was no rain but we were showered with Francesca's voice. Powerful, able to move mountains yet sublime and heavenly. Blessed. And with her shy keyboards embracing the mythical sound and creating harmony. An especially magnificent piece of work was done by Vittorio who, despite the harsh weather, enthralled the audience with his classic medieval guitar playing skills. Adding priest-like vocals and percussions to wake the Gods was multi-talented Francesco. A solemn clarinet and the heart beats of a thousand warriors heading for war in a distant kingdom. No blood but tears were shed and souls were healed.

I find it hard to express with words what this show was like and what Ataraxia's music evokes. Encoutered feelings, passion, tendernes, intensity. Honour and sacred vows. Tears, despair, distress and joy. Travel to beloved ancient times and mystical places, longing. Love, light and strength.

A gate opens so we communicate with the Ancient ones and the long gone Evanecent Warriors and Wandering Clerics.

Check out the official Ataraxia website for more information.