Premiata Forneria Marconi

Introduction to Chocolate Kings

In 1975, the Italian progressive rock band Premiata Forneria Marconi (PFM) released their fourth studio album titled Chocolate Kings. Recorded at Studi Ricordi in Milan, this album marked a new direction for the band with the introduction of lead vocalist Bernardo Lanzetti. Released on the Numero Uno label, Chocolate Kings showcases a more aggressive and intricate musical style that blends hard rock with jazz fusion elements.

Recording and Production

The album was produced by Claudio Fabi and PFM, with engineering work by Gaetano Ria. Executive producer Franco Mamone played a key role in the album’s development. The band chose to record entirely in English, a first for them, with the help of Marva Jan Marrow, who penned the English lyrics. This linguistic shift aimed to broaden their appeal to international audiences.

Musical Composition

Chocolate Kings features five tracks that span a range of styles within the progressive rock genre. The album opens with the seven-minute "From Under," which sets a dynamic tone. "Harlequin" presents an acoustic sound, contrasting with the title track, which exhibits a more traditional rock approach. The song "Out Of The Roundabout" continues the exploration of complex rhythms, while the ten-minute "Paper Charms" serves as a progressive suite, highlighting the band’s musicianship.

Instrumentation and Style

The album is characterized by its intricate arrangements and elaborate instrumentation. Founding member Mauro Pagani contributed violin, flute, and vocals, which added layers to the band's sound before his departure for a solo career. Patrick Djivas provides a powerful bass foundation, while the interplay between guitar and violin enriches the musical experience. The band’s approach to syncopation and tempo changes reflects their jazz fusion influences.

Conclusion

Chocolate Kings was released in late 1975 on vinyl under the catalog number DZSLN 55677.