Review: Althea – ‘Memories Have No Name’

• Memories Have No Name by
• Althea
• Date: January 9, 2017
• Origin: Italy
• Style: Progressive Rock, Alternative

Bold, pleasant, interesting

Brilliant is not enough to describe the second outing from Italy’s Althea. From the first ripping atmospherics of “Regression From Regrets” to the eerie closing moments of “A Final Reflection,” the energies of Memories Have No Name will grasp you and not let go. As with their first, Eleven, Althea has again chosen to take the concept album route.

Listen here:

Memories Have No Name is an intriguing, story told with style

Brilliant is not enough to describe the second outing from Italy’s Althea. From the first ripping atmospherics of “Regression From Regrets” to the eerie closing moments of “A Final Reflection,” the energies of Memories Have No Name will grasp you and not let go. As with their first, Eleven, Althea has again chosen to take the concept album route.

Dark and heavy, every note, chord and vocal intonation are well planned and executed, with unforgettable results. Keyboards are placed only as needed and the haunting vocals and narratives add to the overall tension.

Although vocalist Alessio Accardo’s unique sound alternates between rasp and crystal clear, his delivery on every track is passionate beyond doubt. Dario Borton provides outstanding guitar work. Rhythm section of Fabrizio Zilio (bass) and Sergio Sampietro (drums) provide an often complex backdrop, which fits perfectly. Rarely does a disc come around that is as powerful as this.
Their previous EP – Eleven:

Sound and Production (by Stefan):

Well balanced and good sounding, the production is all an alternative album would want, a lot of layers and all that ambient in the back… flawless. The guitars are crisp and the drums in a combination with the bass create a very full bodied feel. Vocal work is quite good as well, Althea seem to be pushing in that direction and for a good reason. Overall time in the studio was well spent, the sound is flawless all-around.

Memories Have No Name is easily an early treat in these introductory days of 2017. How well will it fare — let’s find out.

Buy the album

Recommended songs: My default opinion – just listen to all of them

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