D.F.A. - "4th" Review

Artist/ Band: D.F.A.
Title: 4th
Label: Moonjune Records
Year of Release: 2008
Offical Artist/ Band Link

The Review:

Italy's D.F.A. (Duty Free Area) returns after almost a decade with a brand new studio album called ’4th’ The line-up consists of Alberto De Grandis (drums/percussion/vocals), Alberto Bonomi (keyboards/flute), Silvio Minella (guitar), and Luca Bladassari (bass), plus a few guests on cello, violin, and vocals. Since then they’ve released a stunning live album from their 2000 NEARfest performance called ’Work In Progress Live’. Their current label, MoonJune Records, released their two studio albums as a compilation called Kaleidoscope (features t1997’s Lavori In Corso & 1999’s Duty Free Area plus some scorching live bonus tracks.

With the opening "Baltasaurus", (almost 15-minute) and third track, "Vietato Generalizzare", the band takes no prisoners on an aggressive musical assault that doesn’t let up , you just know after hearing them that you are in for a treat. The band takes it down a notch on "Flying Trip", which has a classic Camel feel to it but with more muscle. "Mosoq Runa", is the longest track (clocking in at almost 19 minutes) which has a more symphonic feel which is simply sublime. Next up is "The Mirror" is darker more modern sounding song with some very nice vocals. Continuing on the vocal way we have the closing track, "La Ballata de S'isposa 'e Mannorri" which is probably the most accessible track on the album.

Ever since hearing their live recording ‘’Work In Progress Live’ ‘, I knew there was something special about the band. Well after hearing 4th, it’s undeniably one of the best things to come out of Italy in a long way .If you love modern fusion or Italian progressive rock. Then it’s a no-brainer to pick up a copy ASAP!!

Reviewed by Ron Fuchs on November 3rd, 2008

Tracks:

1. Baltasaurus

2. Flying Trip

3. Vietato Generalizzare

4. Mosoq Runa

5. The Mirror

6. La Ballata De 'Si Sposa 'e Mannorri