VIOLA DE SOTO

 Lacero strings together a series of ballads that demonstrate his skill in the new role as a solo songwriter proudly wielding his acoustic guitar.

 The guitar is played with conviction, providing captivating rhythm in almost every track.

Lacero’s album 'C’era Solo da Aspettare' marks a departure from his earlier electric and band-oriented sound to a more stripped-down acoustic style. The record showcases his skill as a solo songwriter using guitar and voice, offering emotive ballads enriched by occasional string and piano arrangements. While one track falters with awkward vocal delivery, the album overall is a captivating blend of folk and post-grunge influences, featuring nods to Nirvana and Velvet Underground. Listen to Lacero’s heartfelt acoustic ballads and explore his unique blend of folk and post-grunge influences today!

 Beba’s voice can do this and much more.

 Mark this album as one of the best of 2022.

Bebawinigi returns after seven years with 'Stupor,' an 11-track album showcasing a powerful and dark rock sound. Mixing English, Italian, and creative vocal styles, the album features edgy guitars and punk cello. Collaborations with Michele Gualdrini add depth to the intricate sound design, marking it as a top 2022 release. Listen to Bebawinigi's 'Stupor' now and experience a masterful blend of dark rock and vocal innovation!

 Abissi, right from the first track, make things clear. Rock, with its derivatives, is the word.

 Abissi open unusual doors for the sonic violence of the aforementioned bands and musical genres.

Abissi's album 'Oltre' distinguishes itself from bands like Verdena by embracing a strong rock foundation with stoner, metal, doom, and psychedelic influences. The band's unique voice and Italian lyrics set them apart, breaking away from mere imitation of grunge and stoner rock icons. The album is praised for its bold personality and uncompromising approach to sonic exploration. Listen to Abissi's 'Oltre' now and experience rock that goes beyond the ordinary with unique Italian flair!

 Here there is quality and creativity to spare.

 The challenge, if it is one, is won overwhelmingly by Cabruja.

Cabruja’s debut album offers a unique and creative take on female-fronted songs with stunning string arrangements and heartfelt interpretations. Collaborations, including Paolo Fresu's trumpet on "Gloomy Sunday," add depth. The Venezuelan singer’s crooner-like voice brings an emotional sweetness reminiscent of Jeff Buckley and Iron & Wine. The album blends chamber pop with thoughtful reimaginings, making it a refreshing and engaging listen. Listen to Cabruja’s debut and experience stunning reinterpretations of iconic songs with creative chamber pop flair.

 He himself, in the liner notes, lets us understand how this journey...has brought him here with pride, sincerity, and passion (and you can feel it).

 Peggiani manages to make [the covers] his own, turning a 'deja vu' garment into a new piece, ready for modern use.

Giorgio Peggiani's album 'Contro il logorio della musica moderna' is a heartfelt journey blending blues and soul with unique reinterpretations of classic covers. Despite six tracks being covers, Peggiani infuses them with new life and personal passion. Highlights include his take on 'Nel blu dipinto di blu' and 'Back At The Chicken Shack.' His original songs also reflect deep blues and soul roots. Explore Giorgio Peggiani's soulful journey and listen to his fresh takes on classics now!

 All’alba drags us into a journey where music becomes a companion of moments and emotions.

 Inga restarts after two difficult years of the pandemic with a colorful and intense album.

Inga’s album All’alba beautifully blends pop and jazz, exploring themes of freedom, love, and reflection. Produced by Massimo Satta, it marks her return post-pandemic, inviting listeners on a colorful emotional journey. The album balances lightness and intensity, showcasing Inga’s vocal expressiveness and genre-mixing creativity. Listen to Inga’s All’alba now and experience a magical blend of pop and jazz full of emotions and hope!

 Ornello, if not listened to superficially, is, as he himself says, surreal!!! Not brainless.

 Ornello gives us 11 songs that could easily be played on one of the big radio stations if they weren’t too busy waiting for the ’farts’ of the usual suspects.

The review defends Ornello's album 'NATO PER CANTARE' against superficial criticism, praising its surreal lyrics and 80s synth pop influence. It contrasts Ornello's thoughtful approach with the brainless clichés of mainstream Italian rock icons like Vasco Rossi. The album's playfulness and style are highlighted, noting it deserves more radio attention despite current trends favoring established artists. Listen to Ornello’s 'NATO PER CANTARE' and discover a fresh, surreal take on Italian rock beyond the clichés!

 There is no plan B for Kico KC, but plan A, namely recording this album, went quite well.

 ‘Via da qui’ (a wonderful mix between pop and funk soul groove) would give us good vibes if they surfed on FM.

Kico KC’s EP 'Nessun piano B' showcases a clear artistic vision with seven well-crafted tracks blending pop, funk soul, and singer-songwriter elements. The music is accessible and radio-friendly, particularly the standout songs 'Via da qui' and 'Colore nel dolore.' The album’s strong groove and emotional depth make it an appealing listen. Overall, it promises a bright future for Kico KC. Listen to Kico KC’s 'Nessun piano B' EP for a fresh blend of pop and soul grooves—you won’t want to miss these appealing tracks!

 UR is a constantly working sonic workshop, a reality currently embodied in a tentacled duo...

 'City Of UR' is the reflection of the way of living and conceiving music for the two.

UR, an Italian duo based in Berlin, delivers a distinct sound combining experimental, psychedelic rock, jazz, and electronics. Their album 'City Of UR' showcases wide musical influences and innovative use of traditional and industrial instruments. Collaborations with notable artists like Malika Ayane highlight their versatility. The album is a testament to their constant musical research and originality. It blends punk, progressive, and ethnic sounds into a unique sonic experience. Explore UR's 'City Of UR' and experience a groundbreaking fusion of psychedelic and experimental rock.

 Two years after their first record (a slap in the face), La Methamorfosi returns with another high-voltage album, without compromises.

 The voice, even with singing in Italian, immediately brings to mind Layne from Alice In Chains.

La Methamorfosi's second album 'In dolore' delivers a high-intensity blend of doom, metal, and proto punk with devastating riffs and emotional depth. The lyrics express a poignant sense of despair reflecting current social and economic struggles. The vocalist’s style recalls Layne Staley of Alice In Chains, adding to the album’s raw authenticity. This self-produced work is best experienced at high volume, immersing listeners in its powerful atmosphere. Listen to La Methamorfosi's 'In dolore' now and feel the raw power of doom metal’s harsh beauty!