L'Ultima Ora e Ode a J. Hendrix (The Trip, 1971)

The Trip were (better: are, as they came back in 2010) one of the most intriguing Italian prog rock bands and released a pair of excellent albums, one of which was titled "Caronte", that's to say Charon, the ferryman that in Greek mythology carries the newly deceased's souls across the rivers dividing the world of the living and the other world. The title of this song includes anothere reference to death, as "L'ultima ora" means "The Last Hour", while the rest of the song title obviously pays tribute to Jimi Hendrix. 

 

"Caronte" was the second studio album by The Trip.

This epic has a strong classical taste, but also features soul elements and quotes some Jimi's passages. That said, the plot of this song is well organized and highly diversified, lining up dark atmospheres, guitar solos and lively interplays. The melodies are very well written and the arrangements provide the final touch. A church organ closes it all... and it surely matches with the theme!

Atlantide (The Trip, 1972)

The Trip were one of the most interesting Italian prog bands back in the Golden era of our favourite genre. And they re-united in 2010, so they still tour worldwide. Their 1972 album "Atlantide" was, of course, about the mythical Continent between Europe and America and featured a well blended mix of classical music, jazzy moods and melodic roots played by a "powerful trio" line up. This title track - the opening one, too - is an instrumental piece, including a dramatic theme and some beautiful variations.

"Atlantide" featured an original gatefold cover. Here it is folded...

...and unfolded.

The first part of the song is rather classically inspired, with a leading piano and an ELP-influenced form. The second part develops the theme in an arcane, choral, very '70s style, a deep and even disquieting section. So, this isn't a mannerist composition, a mere display of technical skills: it's an engaging, rather dark track, affecting the listener's soul in a quite peculiar way.