Customer Reviews

Cercando L'oro

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This is an incredicle listening experience. Rich in modal work it evokes memories and emotions it actually takes you to another place. It's very hipnotic. Also there is an incredible number and combination of instruments involved. One of my favorite has classical guitar and bagpipes happening.

This follow-up to Cogli la Prima Mela features some of Branduardi's strongest songwriting, with a more refined and tight studio production than the raw and folksy approach of the Italian singer's earlier work from the 70's. Where as Cogli La Prima Mela offers more pastoral impressions, Cercando L'Oro is a moodier and more somber record. Not coincidentally, the cover is black in contrast to the bright green of its predecessor. This time Branduardi trades the use of string arrangements with more modern studio sounds. The use of synthesizers remains subtle and not schlockingly overbearing as it often was in the newly digitized 80's when many other folk/celtic groups embraced the technology and introduced the world to the sappiness of the Celtic/new age. Branduardi here, was more cautious and conservative with digital technology. Only on a second listen one notices that the prominent quasi-fusion use of the electric bass is only present to sustain and accentuate his nostalgic old tunes. As always, he remains faithful to his medieval passions and is keen on the melodic without venturing far into new musical territory. The introductory tune "Il Libro" has the same feel of the processional marches that popularized his older records, now against the backdrop of a thumping drum machine. It is truly the only song that kicks in forcefully; almost planted to catch the listener's attention and to sit him down before carrying him away in a land of moods. The remainder of the album flows along gently and melodically. He integrates Celtic instruments successfully, most notably Alan Stivell's harp. Everything feels in place, all the instruments are tightly controlled and never showy. The lyrics in Italian are at times so simple and straight forward that become suitable for children's tunes. Branduardi's faint singing still remains his weakest asset. Yet, he manages to complement it to the flowy and magical quality of the songs. He is like a storyteller whispering old bed-time tales to music whose haunting atmosphere carries you away.

the translation for 'Cercando L'Oro' is 'looking for gold'. Well, you have found it. Branduardi has been always one of my fav ever musicians, since I was a kid. I bought this collection of little masterworks on CD when I was 13 (but I was already familiar with his other works too) and living in a small town in Italy. That was many, many years ago. I have again heard this record after over 25 years and it was such a mesmerizing and magical experience. The other rewiever that wrote that this record will take you to another place, is spot on. Like he said, this record is rich in modal work; in fact Branduardi is no trendy popstar, he is an artist with a deep knowledge of medieval music and was one of the youngest people in Italy to have completed Conservatory music training. His influences are medieval and renaissance music from England, Hungary and other places.

The fact that the album is arranged by Maurizio Fabrizio, one of the very best Italian composers for decades, makes this record a truly high quality musical experience.

If you also understand the lyrics, it will be truly an unforgettable listening experience, but even if not, the music will take you by the hand and soothe you and tell you stories.

Buy with no hesitation.

Allthough this music was original from the 70's I always liked it trough the years.
It never gets boring.
I had the music on a big revox tape but it got lost.
I simply had to have this music.