Old Rock City Orchestra – Y – Ipsilon (M.P. & Records MPRCD104, 2023)
“Ipsilon” (Y) is the fourth album by an excellent progressive rock band from Central Italy called Old Rock City Orchestra. The group’s sound is characterized by the engaging jazz-infused vocals of multi-talented keyboardist and composer Cinzia Catalucci; the widespread use of captivating vintage keyboards, ranging from synthesizers to piano and electric organ; and a masterfully crafted combination of symphonic rock and jazz elements.
Old Rock City Orchestra’s latest album, titled “Y – Ipsilon” (M.P. & Records MPRCD104, 2023), delves into the profound symbolism of the Greek letter “Y,” or Ipsilon, which serves as a representation of divergent life paths: one of virtue and the other of malevolence. Intriguingly, this symbolic duality finds its roots in a shared origin and, following a cyclical perspective on the world, a shared destination. Across the album’s eleven tracks, Old Rock City Orchestra skillfully explores the intrinsic duality that defines the human condition, while simultaneously advocating for a return to unity as an existential imperative.
The origin of Old Rock City Orchestra can be traced back to its formation in 2009 in Orvieto, Italy. The band’s original lineup comprised of Cinzia Catalucci, who contributed her engaging vocal and keyboard skills; guitarist Raffaele Spanetta; Giacomo Cocchiara, handling the bass; and talented drummer Michele “Mike” Capriolo.
It was in the month of August in 2012 that the band made their debut on the music scene with the release of their first album, “Once Upon a Time,” under the M.P. & Records label.
The band’s sophomore studio album, “Back to Earth,” was recorded during the spring of 2014 and saw an international release through the collaboration of M.P. & Records and G.T. Music.
However, in 2018, a significant change befell the band as they transformed into a trio due to the departure of Giacomo Cocchiara. Nevertheless, this alteration did not dampen their creative spirit, leading them to record their third studio album, “The Magic Park of Dark Roses,” which was released on October 10th, 2018.
Cinzia Catalucci’s enthralling vocals and skillful keyboard performances, Raffaele Spanetta’s versatility on both electric and acoustic guitars, bass, backing vocals, and keyboards, combined with Michele “Mike” Capriolo’s exceptional drumming abilities, brought a fresh and invigorating sound to the band’s musical endeavors.
Tragically, the current chapter of Old Rock City Orchestra came to an untimely close with the premature passing of drummer Michele “Mike” Capriolo. This unfortunate event marked the end of an era for the band.