While the English prog rock movement was already considerably mature in 1970, Italy was less so at the forefront. This album showcases the transitional period between psychedelic and progressive genres. Venetian band Il Mucchio’s music perfectly represents this desire to advance and evolve beyond the pop music schemes of the previous decade.

Their self-titled and only LP is pleasantly dominated by keyboards (the first Il Mucchio line-up did not feature any guitarists), which highlights the group’s impressive songwriting skills and vocals that easily recall the New Trolls. That said, personality and originality are not missing from these eight tracks, and one can only wonder what would have become of the group if they had the opportunity to grow further.

After three more 7-inches and a line-up change, the group disbanded, leaving behind this single (beautiful!) album, forgotten for decades and never reissued on vinyl. This edition, curated by Vinyl Magic, is true to the original 1970 release and gives new life to a hidden gem of Italian prog.