Neogothic Progressive Toccatas (Black Widow Records BWR 132, 2011)
Powerful Italian trio Three Monks specializes in instrumental progressive rock led by cathedral-style pipe organ. As the album’s title indicates, the atmosphere is totally Gothic, with impressive majestic organ supported by vibrant drums and bass.
Three Monks was formed to bring together classical music and progressive rock. The group is led by organist and composer Paolo Lazzeri together with Maurizio Bozzi on bass, and drummers Roberto Bichi and Claudio Cuseri. Lazzeri is deeply influenced by the compositions of Julius Reubke (1824-1858) and 1970s progressive rock.
Neogothic Progressive Toccatas is inspired by Baroque-era composers, Italian horror movies and their soundtracks, and fascination with magnificent pipe organs.
Three Monks honors the great Italian progressive rock tradition by playing a landmark piece by legendary group Goblin, who frequently made the film scores for filmmaker Dario Argento.
Neogothic Progressive Toccatas is a superb album where pipe organ reigns supreme and takes you to the marvelous world of medieval cathedrals. The album will appeal to fans of Emerson Lake and Palmer and Rick Wakeman’s Six Wives album.