Altair

Altair is an Italian progressive power metal band formed in 2008 in Ferrara. Founded by Gianmarco Bambini and Luca Scalabrin, the group occupies a specific niche within the European metal scene that prioritizes high-fidelity production and technical virtuosity.

Their sound identity is characterized by the 'Italian Power Metal' school, which emphasizes melodic clarity, neoclassical guitar influences, and soaring, clean vocals, but Altair distinguishes themselves through more aggressive rhythm sections and complex time signatures typical of progressive metal. Their sophomore effort, 'Descending: A Devilish Comedy', solidified their reputation for concept-driven songwriting, drawing lyrical inspiration from classical literature and existential themes. Critically, they are viewed as torchbearers for the style perfected by acts like Rhapsody of Fire and Vision Divine, though with a leaner, more guitar-centric approach. Within the collector community, they are valued for their consistent output and the high level of musicianship displayed across their discography, particularly the interplay between the lead guitar and the driving bass lines.