Cincinnato

Introduction to Cincinnato

Cincinnato is an Italian band that emerged in 1970 in Varese. The group consisted of four musicians: Giacomo Urbanelli on keyboards and vibraphone, Gianni Fantuzzi on guitar, Annibale Vanetti on bass, and Donato Scolese on percussion. After signing with the PDU label in 1972, they released their self-titled album in 1974. This album was recorded on a limited budget, reflecting the constraints faced by many progressive rock bands of the era.

Album Composition and Structure

The album features a blend of jazz-rock and progressive rock elements. Side A contains three tracks, beginning with "Il Ribelle Ubriaco," a substantial piece lasting over ten minutes. Following this is "Tramonto D'Ottobre," which is shorter at just under three minutes, and then the seven-minute "Esperanto." Side B is dedicated entirely to the 20-minute suite titled "L'Ebete," written by Giacomo Urbanelli and Gianni Fantuzzi. This structure allows for both concise musical ideas and extended explorations within a single album.

Musical Style and Influences

Cincinnato's music reflects the fusion of rock and jazz influences popular during the early 1970s. The instrumentation is diverse, with Urbanelli's keyboards and vibraphone providing a unique texture that complements Fantuzzi's guitar work. Vanetti's bass lines and Scolese's percussion add to the rhythmic complexity, creating an engaging sound. The album’s arrangements incorporate improvisational elements typical of jazz-rock, along with the elaborate compositions found in progressive rock.

Availability and Collectibility

This self-titled album by Cincinnato has remained out of print on vinyl for decades. As a result, original copies have become scarce and sought after by collectors of Italian progressive rock. The limited availability enhances its allure among enthusiasts of the genre. The album represents a specific period in the evolution of Italian music, capturing the experimental spirit of the time.

Credits Overview

The songwriting on the album primarily attributes to Giacomo Urbanelli, who penned the first three tracks. The collaborative effort of the band members is evident in the performances throughout the album. Each musician contributes their unique expertise, resulting in a cohesive body of work that reflects their individual talents.