The Cinelli Brothers: Fresco Review

The Cinelli Brothers have a knack for making themselves at home in different corners of roots music, from gritty blues rock to soul and country-leaning melodies. On Fresco, those instincts take the band in several directions, sometimes within the space of a few tracks. Throughout, they maintain a strong sense of melody and an easygoing feel that gives the record its appeal.

The band comprises Italian brothers Marco Cinelli (vocals, guitar and Hammond organ) and Alessandro “Ale” Cinelli (drums, percussion and vocals), who are joined by Tom Julian-Jones (harmonica, guitar and vocals) and Jorma (bass and guitar). Together, they bring bluesy grit, soul-inflected vocals and a strong melodic sensibility to their roots-oriented sound. Following the release of Almost Exactly…The Cinelli Brothers in 2024, the band continue to explore their own take on blues rock on Fresco.

“Heaven” opens the album at a measured pace, pairing expressive duet vocals with organ swells that add warmth to its bluesy soft rock arrangement. It makes for a pleasant opener, setting the mood without overdoing it. “See About Me” takes a country-tinged approach, with a lighthearted chorus and an easygoing, Eagles-like feel.

The album really hits its stride with “More Than A Woman,” a bluesy hard rocker built around a superb retro riff, rugged vocals and a breezy, catchy vocal delivery. The lead guitar work is particularly satisfying, making this a strong contender for the album’s standout track. “Black Hole Heart” follows with a slightly heavier, darker edge. Its mid-paced groove, rough-edged riffage and memorable chorus give it plenty of character.

“Lovin’ Is Easy” shifts gears again, combining soul, R&B and soft rock into a suave, late-night groove. There is a touch of swagger to the performance, and the chorus is another highlight. Elsewhere, “Amen to You” brings gospel influences and prominent horns into a ballad-like arrangement, adding another shade to the album’s musical palette.

The closing track, “The G.O.A.T,” stands apart with its arena-rock sensibility, opening with a cappella vocals before bringing together an early Queen-like theatricality and country-rock touches. It offers an unexpected change of pace to finish the record.

Overall, Fresco is a solid album, carried by assured performances, engaging songwriting and a willingness to explore different corners of roots-based rock. With a handful of highlights and enough variety to keep things interesting, the Cinelli Brothers deliver an enjoyable listen.

The Review: 8/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– Heaven
– See About Me
– Black Hole Heart
– Lovin’ Is Easy
– More Than A Woman

The Big Hit

– More Than A Woman