Clearly inspired by the Italian genre film soundtracks of the late 70's/early 80's (including the Luigi Cozzi film of the same name), Contaminazione delivers the synthy, prog-rock goodness we've grown to love from the classic films of this era. Their debut album, Pericolo Di Morte, draws influence from genre heavyweights Goblin, Il Roveschio della Medaglia, and Fabio Frizzi. With bands like Zombi evolving into a different direction, the vacuum left in this Italo retro-prog genre is nicely filled by Contaminazione. For those that have wished to hear what an alternate timeline in Italian film would have sounded like, Pericolo Di Morte is an excellent view through this Swedish trio's lens.

 

Although the sounds of this niche brand of prog-rock has been a part of our landscape for the past 50 years, there was still more to be heard and enjoyed. Picking up where their idols left off, Contaminazione's Pericolo Di Morte embraces the dark, synthy, propulsive prog of their Italian progenitors and expands upon their original M.O. Without the distraction or ties to specific films clouding one's interpretation of the music (not that these acts ONLY did film scores, but that's how most know these musicians), Contaminazione is able to put their rock on the forefront and let it speak for itself. While this "Italian retro-prog" approach is nothing new, Contaminazione's debut shows a complete commitment to furthering the sound and embracing this new branch instead of merely looking back and parroting what has come before. Built with a three-piece consisting of keyboards, bass, and drums, this trio conveys their message effectively and lovingly, paying tribute while also forging their own path. Eschewing the temptation to add in modern flourishes, Pericolo Di Morte certainly feels like a lost album from a bygone era; the production is wonderfully warm and not overly crisp and processed. Feeling like a well-loved slab of vinyl, this album quickly worms its way into the listeners heart and mind, and lends itself to repeated listens. Hearing the thick bass, well-timed drums, and flying, floating synth lines brings the listener back to a time in which they may only know through films or old records; bringing up memories that are even real, but musically feel as tangible as one's first kiss. 

 

Pericolo Di Morte is an excellent debut album from the Swedish trio Contaminazione. For fans of acts like Goblin and Fabio Frizzi, this quick slice of slick retro-prog will fit right into that space in your heart left for, "what would have happened if..." With time continuing to blast forward, and our memories moving further and further into the distance, this 23 minute rocker will help to remind us that no matter how far removed we feel from our past and influences, music will always be here to keep us company on the journey and remind us of all the love and great times we've had