Corde Oblique – The Stones Of Naples (2009)

Corde Oblique is an Italian band that is the brainchild of Riccardo Prencipe who composes all the music, but in the recording of this album used the help of an impressive list of musicians (for more go to their site),  and when performing live he is helped by Claudia Sorvillo (vocals), Edo Notarloberti (violin), Alessio Sica (drums) and Umberto Lepore (bass) who also contributed in the album.

The band plays acoustic music that is of the highest level of quality and beauty. I listen to and appreciate all kinds of music regardless if they are metal or not, and acoustic music is one of my favorites.  I really like bands like Antimatter, Brillig and Ashram just to name a few, and Corde Oblique is in the same alley.

“The Stones Of Naples” features 12 tracks, some in English and some in Italian and a acoustic cover of “Flying” of Anathema. All tracks feature Riccardo on guitars and, like previously mentioned, and array of different musicians in all other instruments and vocals.

Each track has it’s own identity and paints an imaginary image of places or monuments as the albums press release describes, but as a listener you get this feeling when you enjoy the music and read the lyrics (they can all be found translated to English in the albums 24 page booklet). Corde Oblique’s musical atmosphere transports listeners into magical places, a feat that not many bands have the ability to do, but Riccardo Prencipe is a master at it. The twelve tracks flow like a hypnotic dream and before you know it you find yourself at the end of the album, but just in time to start it again and keep on dreaming. This makes this album magical and an essential in your collection if you like this type of music.

All guitars are beautifully played and composed, as well as all the other instruments. There is not a single ‘weak’ thing in this release since it showcases Riccardo Prencipe’s ability as a masterful composer. The production of this album is crystal clear allowing the listener to fully enjoy this musical experience.

If you like acoustic music and you are looking for a great new release, look no further and get “The Stones Of Naples” and prepare for an unforgettable journey.

Release: May 2009

Country: Italy