Ellesmere – Wyrd (AMS, 2020)
This album released in late 2020 is one of the finest progressive rock albums I’ve heard in a long time. Ellesmere is a trio that brings together three of the finest European progressive rock instrumentalists led by composer and multi-instrumentalist Roberto Vitelli. They create progressive symphonic rock of the highest order infused with jazz-rock as well.
Ellesmere invited a dream team of progressive rock instrumentalists from Italy, the UK, and Sweden to participate in this remarkable recording. Together, they deliver spectacular epic progressive rock with dazzling solo performances and masterful arrangements. It is pure delight and a real treat for keyboard lovers.
Wyrd is a masterwork in all senses. The music is fantastic, the production is top notch and the artwork is striking and captivating. The cover art by Rodney Matthews takes you to a mysterious fantasy world.
The band includes Roberto Vitelli (Taproban) on bass, guitars, ebow and Taurus bass pedals; Fabio Bonuglia on Mellotron, synthesizers (Moog, Prophet, Crumar and Korg), Hammond organ,and additional keyboards; and Mattias Olsson (Änglagård, White Willow) on drums and percussion.
Guests featured: Tomas Bodin (The Flower Kings) on keyboards; David Cross (King Crimson) on violin; John Hackett (Steve Hackett) on flute; David Jackson (Van Der Graaf Generator, Osanna) on saxophone; Tony Pagliuca (Le Orme) on keyboards; Luciano Regoli (Raccomandata Ricevuta Ritorno) on vocals; Fabio Liberatori (Loy & Altomare, Lucio Dalla, Ron) on keyboards; and Giorgio Pizzala on vocals.
Previous recordings include “Les Châteaux De La Loire” (2015) and “Ellesmere II.”
Buy Wyrd