Barock ProjecT
„Time Voyager“
Symphonic Rock, Progressive Rock. 

• CD, Digipack 2024
• Original 
• Not On Label: Barock Project Self-released
• CRVLRD0124
• new

In 2003, pianist, singer, and composer Luca Zabbini founded the progressive Baroque ProjecT in Modena, Italy. As a prog fan, I wonder whether this symphonic prog offers anything new or simply draws on existing vintage prog from the 70s and the neo-melodic prog of the 80s and 90s. Porcupine Tree also draws on these influences, but creates something unique from them. Since I'm only familiar with Time Voyager, their seventh album, I can't assess the evolution of BP's (Barock ProjecT's) music. However, what I can say about this concept album is that it was recorded and produced to a very high standard by very good musicians.

As much as I like the overall design of the digipak, I'd like to know who designed it. I haven't found any information about the artwork on the CD, the booklet, Discogs, or the official website.

So what does it sound like? Smooth, not too symphonic, vintage prog and neo-melodic prog. I'm particularly picky when it comes to symphonic rock. But if it's as nicely integrated as it is here, then gladly. However, BT risks drifting into kitschy, mainstream commercialism. The very well-crafted prog sections immediately save the first song, "Carry On". This, like track 2, “Summer Set You Free”, which borders on medieval and celtic kitsch, is reminiscent of Arena, Pendragon, IQ, The Mission or Kansas. BT also saves song 2 with its beautiful prog sections. Number 3, "An Ordinary's Day's Odyssey" strongly reminds me of IQ. So far, at least on this CD, I'm missing that distinctive character. Not that the songs should be ashamed of themselves. But track 4, "The Lost Ship Tavern" does get on my nerves. A little less medieval pop, please. It also retains its strong prog elements. With "Voyager" comes a very spacey, prog-like, rock-like "ballad," and for the first time it sounds more original, even if it still evokes the usual suspects.

The remaining songs aren't bad, but for me, they're interchangeable. Except for "Voyager's Homecoming"—I wish there had been more of that. Because none of it is new or original enough to hold my attention for long. Technically, though, there's nothing to complain about. Good musicians, absolutely clean production. It's a listenable album, but I'd rather listen to the band's inspirations. Perhaps a less polished, symphonic "baroque" sound would help. More experimental, progressive baroque? That might be more distinctive.

Bass Guitar – Francesco Caliendo, Luca Zabbini
Drums, Percussion, Bouzouki – Eric Ombelli
Electric Guitar – Marco Mazzuoccolo
Keyboards, Acoustic Guitar, Backing Vocals, Bouzouki – Luca Zabbini
Lead Vocals – Eric Ombelli, Luca Zabbini
Backing Vocals – Alex Mari

The photos are all from my CD. The rights to all motifs, logos, texts and fonts that can be seen in the photos are of course owned by the copyright holder.

TheProgThief
©22.08.2026
Mk 2