What makes Tic&Tac by Area notable?

Tic&Tac received significant attention for its innovative approach to progressive rock, contributing to Area's status as pioneers in the genre. The album's experimental nature resonated with audiences, leading to a cult following that has persisted over the decades. It also exemplifies Italy's vibrant avant-garde scene during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Released in 1980, Tic&Tac is Area's fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Maledetti (1979). At this point, the band was further solidifying their reputation for genre-defying music and political lyrics. The album reflects their continuous evolution, showcasing a mix of jazz, rock, and electronic sounds characteristic of their progressive style.

Tic&Tac works well if you're into kaleidoscopic sonic explorations, playful yet intricate arrangements and short bursts of creativity.

How many songs are on Tic&Tac?

Tic&Tac has 10 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Tic&Tac

Area · 1980

41 min · 10 tracks · progressive rock

A kaleidoscopic blend of progressive rock intricacies and avant-garde experimentation, capturing the essence of late '70s Italian music.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
La torre dell'alchimista — This opening track sets the stage with its complex rhythms and intricate melodies, encapsulating the band's unique sound while exploring themes of alchemy and transformation.
→
Danza ad anello — Blending traditional Italian folk elements with progressive rock, this track showcases Area's ability to merge diverse musical influences seamlessly.
→
Chantée d'amour — This song features a haunting vocal performance paired with experimental instrumentation, highlighting the band's innovative approach to lyrical storytelling and mood.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate compositions and experimental sound mark it as a notable entry in progressive rock.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate unconventional instrumentation, such as the use of saxophones and synthesizers, which contribute to its avant-garde sound.
The lyrics often blend political themes with abstract imagery, creating a layered narrative that invites deeper analysis.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

kaleidoscopic sonic explorations
playful yet intricate arrangements
short bursts of creativity
late-night introspective sessions

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1980, Tic&Tac is Area's fourth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Maledetti (1979). At this point, the band was further solidifying their reputation for genre-defying music and political lyrics. The album reflects their continuous evolution, showcasing a mix of jazz, rock, and electronic sounds characteristic of their progressive style.
Stylistic neighbors: Gentle Giant· King Crimson· Van der Graaf Generator

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 La torre dell'alchimista 5:54
2 Danza ad anello 5:13
3 A.S.A. 4:34
4 Letric Rag 1:54
5 La luna nel pozzo 3:45
6 Tic & Tac 4:37
7 Quartet 2:11
8 Sibarotega 4:17
9 Chantée d'amour 4:49
10 Ante de hablar abra la boca 4:23

What to play next

Listen next

Area '70

1980

Go back to

Event '76

1979

Full Area discography Artists like Area

progressive rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata