Black Widow 6.3

In 1968 the composer Antonio Bartoccetti founded the group Jacula, with a view to transform into music a series of theological-philosophical and esoteric observations. Jacula released the albums "In Cauda Semper Stat Venenum", "Tardo Pede in Magiam Versus". The project would end in 1972, then evolve into Antonius Rex and more album would follow under that name.
"In Cauda Semper Stat Venenum" is the debut album by Jacula. Self-released by the band in 1969 on their Gnome label, the album was released by Black Widow Records in 2001 in a highly edited version (according to guitarist and bandleader Bartoccetti) featuring Pro Tools, distorted guitars and samplers. Mysterious worlds, evocative church organ, innovative guitar, involving voices and lyrics, creative piano and synth, rhythms with tympanis.

In 1968 the composer Antonio Bartoccetti founded the group Jacula, with a view to transform into music a series of theological-philosophical and esoteric observations.
From the inner search to the magic worlds. Classic versus progressive contaminations. First ecological document, church organ, harpsichord, bass, mini-moog, violins, flutes, celebrating voices.

Organ and mellotron laden heavy and dark progressive rock creating a real tonal 70's soundscape. Standarte's jams draw heavy shades of Atomic Rooster, Deep Purple and Italy's Nuova Idea. Vocals are convincingly sung in English with some spoken parts which adds a real ethereal quality to the albums. Without a question when these lads get sailing their music is rich, profound and highly addictive.

The sound of Wicked Minds is heavy and dynamic with obvious hints from Uriah Heep along Deep Purple, Atomic Rooster and High Tide. But Wicked Minds is more than just a derivative, they are good and experienced musicians who can write good and elaborate compositions, from dreamy and mellow with warm vocals, flute and acoustic guitar to harder-edged and bombastic with fiery, often biting and wah-wah drenched guitar and floods of Hammond organ. Also interesting is the pleasant integration of vintage keyboards like the Solina string-ensemble, Fender Rhodes piano, Minimoog synthesizer and even Mellotron. This adds an extra dimension to their sound and makes it worth listening for not only the hardrock and metal fans.

French band Northwinds was formed back in 1990, initially calling themselves R.I.P. but altering to their current moniker in the mid 90's. Since then five full length albums have seen the light of day, of which "Winter" from 2012 is the fourth. As has been the case for all their productions, this CD was released through the Italian label Black Widow Records. If you're the kind of person that have Antonius Rex and Black Sabbath side by side in your music collection, enjoy the occasional Black Widow (the band) album or have a general affection for productions released by Black Widow (the label), Northwinds is a band you probably should investigate. And their latest production "Winter" appears to be a good choice in getting to know this band better.