Premiata Forneria Marconi

Overview of Jet Lag

Jet Lag is the seventh studio album by the Italian progressive rock and jazz-fusion band Premiata Forneria Marconi (PFM). Released in 1977, it appears on the Zoo label in Italy and Asylum Records in North America. This album was recorded in two locations: Kendun Recorders in Burbank, California, and Scorpio Sound in London. PFM self-produced the album, with engineering handled by Andy Hendriksen and mixing by Ray Hendriksen. Franco Mamone served as the executive producer, while Marva Jan Marrow contributed to the lyrics.

Lineup Changes and Musical Direction

Jet Lag marks a significant transition for PFM, featuring new American violinist Gregory Bloch, who replaced founding member Mauro Pagani. The band’s lineup also includes lead singer and percussionist Bernardo Lanzetti, guitarist Franco Mussida, keyboardist Flavio Premoli, bassist Patrick Djivas, and drummer Franz Di Cioccio. This configuration reflects a shift in the band's sound from 1970s symphonic prog to a more airy and cosmopolitan jazz-rock fusion style. The album's sound draws comparisons to prominent jazz-fusion groups such as Weather Report and Return to Forever.

Musical Themes and Composition

Jet Lag captures the essence of PFM's trans-Atlantic lifestyle and their experiences while touring in America. The album consists of eight tracks that vary in style and composition. It opens with the acoustic guitar prelude "Peninsula" and features the title track "Jet Lag," which spans nine minutes. Another notable track is "Storia In 'LA'," which reflects the band's connection to American culture. The Italian-language song "Cerco La Lingua" and the fluid instrumental "Meridiani" highlight PFM's ability to blend different musical elements seamlessly. This album showcases the band's evolving sound while maintaining their progressive roots.

Production Details

The album's production involved a collaborative effort from the band members and the engineering team. The use of instruments like the Fender Rhodes, Minimoog, and Hammond organ by Flavio Premoli adds depth to the overall sound. Patrick Djivas's fretless bass work and Moog B12 bass synth contribute a distinctive quality to the tracks. The engineering and mixing by the Hendriksen brothers provide a polished finish to the album.

Jet Lag was released in 1977 on the Zoo label (ZLS 34001) in Italy and Asylum Records in North America.