Areknames - Areknames (2003)

Founded in 2001 in Pescara, Italy (formerly named Mors in Fabula)

AREKNAMES are a new Italian band that will bring you straight back into the magical 70's. Strongly influenced by both VAN DER GRAAF GENERATOR and the Canterbury scene, they are nevertheless free of any clich?s and successfully manage to mix those influences with their own very personal style. They are masterminded by composer, producer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Michele Epifani who handles the Hammond organ, piano, mellotron, synths, harpsichord, acoustic and electric guitars as well as the recorder. Bassist Piero Ranalli and drummer Mino Vitelli, who plays various ethnic percussions (djemb?, Arabian tabla and spring drum) complete the roster.

Their first album, released by Black Widow in 2003, is made up of six fairly long tracks that feature a lot of mellotron, which plays a prominent role in the arrangements along with some heavy guitar riffs. All tracks feature many dramatic mood changes, constantly alternating between melodic parts and furious passages, between classic symphonic rock and outright 'doom' prog, never staying long in anyone spot. It is a well-balanced and consistent album, featuring a good vocalist (who sounds much like Peter Hammill) and great musicians who obviously concentrate on creativity rather than a show of technical prowess. A second and more acclaimed album was released in 2006 with a live album in 2007. Their second album "love hate round trip" won an award at ProgAwards 2006-which is where the displayed photo is from.

Their 3rd album arrived in 2010, the epic "in case of loss" which is one of the years best, and features a mammoth 20-minute track.

If you enjoy the dark or heavy style of VDGG and their likes, but can do without the ultra speed factor, you'll certainly enjoy ARKENAM?S.