Photos of Ghosts [Import]

PFM (Premiata Forneria Marconi), P.f.m | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Audio CD (July 15, 1998)
• Number of Discs: 1
• Format: Import
• Label: Sony/Bmg Italy
• ASIN: B000007UCQ
• In-Print Editions: Audio CD  |  MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (19 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #19,456 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)
  • #50 in Music > World Music > Europe > Continental Europe > Italy
  • #52 in Music > Dance & DJ > World Dance
  • #88 in Music > World Music > Rock

Editorial Reviews

Limited Edition Japanese pressing of this album comes housed in a miniature LP sleeve. 2008. --This text refers to an alternate Audio CD edition.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant., January 23, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: Photos of Ghosts (Audio CD)

This recording, released in 1973, was originally a collection of remakes of pieces written for their first two Italian language releases, Per Un Amico and Storia Di Minuto. The difference primarily being that on Photos Of Ghosts the songs were re-done with English lyrics and vocals(with the exception of Il Banchetto). Where this isn't an original recording, but re-makes of earlier releases, it still works brilliantly. This, more so than on later recordings, is a brilliant mix of progressive-rock with that of traditional Italian classical and chamber music. As musicians, PFM were as well trained and proficient as any in the genre. There is not a weak performance or composition in the collection. Highly recommended...Simon

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Truly moving piece of music, March 14, 2003

By 

Jeffrey J.Park (Massachusetts, USA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Photos of Ghosts (Audio CD)

Photos of Ghosts (1973) is the English language version of the album Per un Amico, with both "Celebration", (which was originally included on Storia di un Minuto (1972) as "E Festa"), and the new acoustic instrumental "Old Rain" added on. This is probably one of my favorite albums by the band and demonstrates why PFM was one of the finest bands to emerge from the Italian prog scene. Shades of 1969-1970 period King Crimson all shine through here and there, which is also an endearing quality in my book. Of course, the King Crimson link is further driven home by the association with lyricist Pete Sinfield and the album was originally released on ELP's Manticore label.

The lineup on Photos of Ghosts is considered to be the classic PFM lineup and included Flavio Premoli (synthesizers, piano, Hammond organ, mellotron, and vocals); Franx Di Cioccio (drums and vocals); Giorgio Piazza (bass guitar); the incredible Franco Mussida (electric and acoustic guitars, vocals); and Mauro Pagani (violin and flute). All of the band members are simply sensational musicians and the individual playing and intricate ensemble work is breathtaking. With the exception of Il Banchetto (which is unchanged from the version on Per un Amico), the vocals are in English with a heavy accent - I do not find it the least bit distracting.

The seven tracks on Photos of Ghosts range in length from 3'20" to 8'32". In general, the music is very soft and contemplative, yet also includes the unbelievable instrumental virtuosity and intricate ensemble work that characterizes PFM. Their genius lies in an ability to fuse virtuosity with atmospherics to create truly moving pieces of music. "River of Life" is a good example of this. Analog synthesizers abound in this recording and are showcased on "Il Banchetto".

This is a remarkable album that is very highly recommended along with the debut Storia di un Minuto and The World Became the World (1974). Absolutely wonderful stuff from beginning to end.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars The Very Best PFM, December 4, 1999

By 

Rock Expert "Rock Expert" (Montgomery, AL USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Photos of Ghosts (Audio CD)

I only discovered PFM this year. Somehow I missed them in the 70's. This is a terrific cd. If your into ELP, Yes, Gentle Giant you will love this music. After "Photos" "Chocolate Kings and World became the World are excellent. This rates with the best of ELP, Yes, GG, Genesis etc. Enjoy.