Canzoniere Del Lazio

Introduction to Spirito Bono

In 1976, the Italian group Canzoniere Del Lazio released their third studio album, titled Spirito Bono. This album came out on the Intingo label and is a representation of the band’s commitment to blending various musical styles.

Recording Details

Spirito Bono was recorded in November 1975 at Chantalain Studio in Rome. The engineering and mixing of the album were handled by Peter Kaukonen, an American producer and musician known for his work with Jefferson Airplane. This technical collaboration likely influenced the album's sound, which merges traditional elements with modern production techniques.

Musical Style and Composition

The album consists of four extended tracks that emphasize the band’s fusion of central and southern Italian folk traditions with jazz-rock and Mediterranean rhythms. The opening track, “Ballo In Re (Festa),” runs for over 16 minutes and sets the tone for the album's exploration of complex musical structures. Other tracks, such as “Morte Di Pulcinella” and the title track “Spirito Bono (Coccode),” continue this trend with their experimental sounds and varied instrumentation.

Band Lineup

The ensemble features a diverse lineup, including Piero Brega on vocals and acoustic guitar, Carlo Siliotto on violin and mandolin, and Francesco Giannattasio playing the organ and tenor saxophone. Luigi Cinque contributes with soprano and tenor sax, while Pasquale Minieri plays guitars and mandolin. Piero Avallone’s role on drums adds rhythmic depth, complemented by guest percussionist Giorgio Vivaldi.

Conclusion

Spirito Bono reflects the unique blend of Italian folk and progressive influences through its intricate arrangements and skilled musicianship, making it an interesting entry in the 1970s musical landscape. The album was released in 1976.