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Giulio Garghentini: Believe

Melodic Rock/AOR

3.5/5.0

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Tanzan Records
by Craig S. Hartranft,  12.18.2013

Despite the fact that I never heard of him (he's from Italy) and can barely pronounce his name, Giulio Garghentini's debut album Believe came as quite a surprise, better than expected. His musical experience spans 25 years doing rock to musicals including Jesus Christ Superstar, and giving vocal lessons around Italy. As of 2007, Giulio is the lead singer for Dream Company, an Italian Bon Jovi cover band. You here a little of Jon Bon Jovi in his timbre.

Giulio Garghentini:: and band.

But don't expect Believe to sound like a Bon Jovi album. It's basically classic melodic rock in an AOR wrapper, with a touch of funk and blues here and there. The strengths of the album are two-fold. First, at the forefront, of course, is Garghentini voice and vocal arrangements. He has a powerful and clear vocal style with good range, and seems to perform with effortless ease.

The second strength of this album are the sharp guitar leads from guitarist Mario Percundani, who co-wrote several songs and produced the album. After hearing his groovy hard rock solo on the opening track No Second Chance, I was quickly listening for the next one.

For a few highlights. For the depth of Giulio's voice and vocal arrangements the stand tracks are likely I Can't Stand the Rain, Believe, So Beautiful, and My Jesus. The last two are strong ballads, with My Jesus having more than a little traditional Gospel feel to it. Other songs are a bit quirky. Rockstar suggests another rock n roll romp, but moves more on a funk groove. Another thing to listen for is some groovy old school Hammond organ on several songs including Down the Line where it's mingled with Percundani's lead. Garghentini should be pleased with his debut Believe, it puts his voice forward displaying his confidence and strength as both a vocalist and a song writer.

Giulio Garghentini - Believe (album preview)

Garghentini should be pleased with his debut Believe, it puts his voice forward displaying his confidence and strength as both a vocalist and a song writer.

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This experience deserves mention for one very good reason: Finland's One Desire is one of the best classic AOR melodic hard rock bands in the genre and, perhaps, the world, right now So, I also apologize, in ... [ Read More ]