Le Orme is an Italian progressive rock band that emerged as one of the leading acts in the Italian progressive rock scene. Known for their symphonic and melodic approach, they have a rich history and a significant discography.
Formation and Country:
Le Orme was formed in 1966 in Venice, Italy. Initially starting as a beat and psychedelic rock band, they transitioned to progressive rock in the early 1970s.
Members:
Classic Lineup:
- Aldo Tagliapietra โ vocals, bass, guitars
- Tony Pagliuca โ keyboards
- Michi Dei Rossi โ drums, percussion
Later and Current Members:
- Michele Bon โ keyboards
- Fabio Trentini โ bass, guitars, vocals
- Giancarlo Golzi โ drums (deceased)
- Tolo Marton โ guitars (various periods)
Full Discography:
- Ad Gloriam (1969)
- Collage (1971)
- Uomo di Pezza (1972)
- Felona e Sorona (1973)
- Contrappunti (1974)
- Smogmagica (1975)
- Veritร Nascoste (1976)
- Storia o Leggenda (1977)
- Florian (1979)
- Piccola Rapsodia dellโApe (1980)
- Venerdรฌ (1982)
- Orme (1990)
- Il Fiume (1996)
- Elementi (2001)
- L’Infinito (2004)
- La Via Della Seta (2011)
- Amico di Ieri (2012)
- Felona e/and Sorona (2016)
History:
Formation and Early Years: Le Orme was founded by Aldo Tagliapietra, Tony Pagliuca, and Michi Dei Rossi in the late 1960s. Their early work, including their debut album Ad Gloriam (1969), was influenced by the beat and psychedelic rock scenes.
Transition to Progressive Rock: In the early 1970s, Le Orme transitioned to a more progressive rock sound, starting with the album Collage (1971). This shift brought them significant success and recognition in the Italian progressive rock movement.
Golden Era: The band’s golden era includes albums like Uomo di Pezza (1972), Felona e Sorona (1973), and Contrappunti (1974). Felona e Sorona, a concept album about two planets, is particularly noted for its symphonic and melodic complexity and is considered a masterpiece of Italian progressive rock.
Later Years and Evolution: Le Orme continued to release albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, experimenting with different sounds and styles. Albums like Florian (1979) and Piccola Rapsodia dellโApe (1980) showcased their versatility, incorporating more acoustic and orchestral elements.
Reunion and Recent Activity: The band reunited in the 1990s and has since released several albums, including Il Fiume (1996) and L’Infinito (2004), staying true to their progressive roots. They continue to perform and record, maintaining a loyal fan base.
Interesting Details:
- Concept Albums: Le Orme is known for their concept albums, particularly Felona e Sorona, which tells the story of two contrasting planets.
- Symphonic Elements: Their music often incorporates symphonic and classical elements, blending them seamlessly with rock.
- Influence: Le Orme has been influential in the Italian progressive rock scene and is considered one of the genre’s pioneers in Italy.
Music Themes:
Le Orme’s music often explores:
- Symphonic and Melodic Rock: Their sound features lush, symphonic arrangements and strong melodies.
- Conceptual Narratives: Many of their albums are concept albums with intricate storylines and thematic coherence.
- Classical and Acoustic Elements: Incorporation of classical music influences and acoustic instruments adds depth and variety to their sound.
Le Orme remains a seminal band in the Italian progressive rock scene, known for their musical innovation and enduring contributions to the genre.
