Metamorfosi-Inferno (1973)

Hailing from Rome, Metamorfosis achieved lasting fame for creating one of the finest albums of Italian progressive rock. Inspired by Dante's "Divine Comedy", this Italian group showcases magnificent melodic instrumentation on this release (their second album), driven by brilliant keyboards, especially the Hammond organ, and the emotive vocals of lead singer Davide Spitaleri. The rest of this Italian lineup consisted of Roberto Turbitosi (guitars), Enrico Olivieri (keyboards), and Gianluca Herygers (percussion). "Inferno" is a stunning suite that is undoubtedly a landmark within progressive and symphonic rock, an album that is overwhelming from beginning to end, a majestic work that unfolds amidst dark and sinister atmospheres, ingenious yet malevolent melodies, and an imaginary narrative through hell, describing, with the music itself and its grim lyrics, the suffering of modern sinners, be they rulers, drug traffickers, the greedy, or the corrupt in general. Without a doubt, we are looking at one of the essential works of progressive rock and one of the pinnacles of the Italian avant-garde scene.