The much-discussed 1980s were not just about hedonism and plastic, commercial TV and synth-pop, Craxi’s politics and goth enthusiasts: it was a complex decade with many faces.

 Now, there is one more tool, which might spark a debate, lead to reunions, ignite the interest of new enthusiasts.

Roberto Calabrò's Eighties Colours sheds light on Italy's underground neo-sixties music revival from 1985-1990. The book fills a gap ignored by mainstream media and explores the passion behind the beat, garage, and psychedelic sounds rediscovered by young musicians. Rich with interviews and anecdotes, it reveals a vibrant subculture fostered by dedicated fans, fanzines, and grassroots efforts. A valuable resource for those curious about Italy's underground rock beyond the new wave. Dive into Eighties Colours and discover Italy's hidden 80s neo-sixties music revival—explore the passion and stories behind the underground scene!

 Street metal and sleaze in its purest form, raw, crude, and wild!

 If Spread Eagle sings hell to me, I want to stay there for a long time!

This review praises Spread Eagle's 1993 album 'Open to the Public' for its raw, primal energy and variety, combining sleaze metal and groove with passionate performances. The reviewer highlights the band's powerful songwriting, emotional range, and standout tracks like 'Devil's Road' and 'Revolution Maker.' Despite the band's premature end, their music remains compelling and impactful. The album is celebrated as a underrated classic with a diverse, exciting sound. Explore Spread Eagle's intense and passionate 'Open to the Public'—listen to this sleaze metal classic and experience raw 90s rock energy now!

 "Dehumanizer is paradoxically more solid, heavy, and sinister than many era’s metal releases by major names like Maiden or Metallica."

 "Ronnie J. Dio is the great novelty of this album, delivering lyrics projecting everyday life and an uncertain future with haunting vocal theatricality."

This review honors Ronnie James Dio and re-evaluates Black Sabbath's 1992 album Dehumanizer, often unfairly underrated. It highlights the album's heavy, doom-laden sound and its solid lineup, positioning it as a strong, influential metal release of the era. The lyrical content reflects technological and social concerns, while guitar work and vocal delivery showcase the band's strengths. Despite initial mixed reception, the album grows in appreciation over time. Explore Dehumanizer now and rediscover a powerful chapter of Black Sabbath and metal history!

 "Whack style will never be our style cause me and the hard rock will always be buck wild."

 Without being verbose, I candidly confess that it’s striking to listen to this demo... and then compare all of that to the present, two completely different bands.

This review dives into Lozt Prophetz's 1998 demo 'Para Todas Las Putas Celosas,' revealing their raw rapcore and nu metal roots before evolving into Lostprophets. The reviewer reflects on the band's aggressive early style, credited heavily to DJ Stepzak's scratching and hip-hop influence. Key demo tracks like 'Wiseguy' and 'Seasonz' showcase their distinctive edge. The review also laments the later mellow direction and commercial success that distanced the band from these origins. Listen to the raw and fierce beginnings of Lostprophets with Lozt Prophetz's 1998 demo—discover the roots of rapcore and nu metal today!

 Mournful Congregation indeed have the extraordinary ability to create compositions that transcend the music itself and become true stories among human sufferings and fears.

 At the end of this suffocating journey, there remains the regret for an album that, given the great ability of the band, could have certainly given something more.

The review reflects on Mournful Congregation's 2009 album The June Frost, comparing it to their prior masterpiece The Monad of Creation. While retaining their signature grand, slow funeral doom style and dark atmospheres, this album is seen as less inventive and somewhat fragmented due to many instrumental tracks. Despite shortcomings, the album still stands out among recent funeral doom releases, highlighting moments of excellent songwriting and emotional depth. Explore Mournful Congregation's haunting funeral doom journey in The June Frost and discover its somber depths and raw emotion.

 How nice it is to be wrong.

 Folk music, in fact, the 'REAL' kind, is only the one played on stage and lived by the audience.

The reviewer, initially skeptical, attends Eugenio Bennato's Taranta Power live concert in Positano. Despite doubts, the vibrant performance of folk music and visually engaging dances captivate the audience. While the studio album feels homemade and less compelling, the live event is an unforgettable experience. The show combines traditional sounds with modern elements, creating a heartfelt and infectious atmosphere. The reviewer highly recommends attending the concert to truly appreciate Bennato's artistry. Experience the infectious energy of Eugenio Bennato’s Taranta Power live—watch, listen, and get swept away by authentic Italian folk vibes!

 10 songs that leave you wanting to start listening to them again; personally, it doesn’t happen to me often when I listen to an album, the last time I did something similar was with Nirvana's 'Nevermind,' if you catch my drift?

 This is an album that breaks, tilts, and shatters something we’re used to. Listen to believe.

Dance For Burgess' album SSA delivers a compelling mix of post-punk, new wave, and psychedelic influences. The reviewer finds it exceptionally captivating, comparing its impact to Nirvana's Nevermind. With 10 tracks that could be singles, the album breaks musical conventions and invites repeat listens. The blend of influences spans from late 70s/early 80s icons to Sonic Youth and Radiohead, creating a unique and danceable sound. Listen to Dance For Burgess' SSA now and experience a fresh post-punk revival that will keep you coming back for more.

 Death Alley Driver... highlights a Blackmore in top form with a frenzied solo bordering on cacophony.

 The blatantly AOR imprint significantly dampens the expressiveness and genius of this great band.

This review examines Rainbow’s 1982 album 'Straight Between the Eyes' as a product of both strong musicianship and production haste. Ritchie Blackmore’s guitar skills shine, though the album’s radio-friendly AOR approach detracts from its overall expressiveness. Key tracks like 'Death Alley Driver' and 'Eyes of Fire' stand out, despite some filler and inconsistent vocal choices. The album reflects the band’s transition and commercial focus in the early 80s. Dive into Rainbow’s classic 1982 album to experience Ritchie Blackmore’s iconic guitar work and explore the band’s evolving sound today!

 The quality of the recordings is always excellent, but what’s missing are the indelible tracks, those that make you sigh with emotion.

 "Calling Elvis" perfectly encapsulates the album’s soul, that is, "nice, but nothing exceptional."

On Every Street is Dire Straits’ much-anticipated comeback album after a six-year hiatus, showcasing Mark Knopfler’s mastery across diverse genres. While the recordings are technically excellent, the album lacks the emotionally unforgettable tracks fans expected. Songs like "Calling Elvis" and "Heavy Fuel" highlight the band’s return with nostalgia, but the overall impact feels moderate. It remains a varied and skillful addition to the band's discography, marking a mature yet restrained phase in their career. Discover the sound of Dire Straits’ varied comeback. Listen to On Every Street and explore their subtle evolution today!

 ‘We will all die one day,’ a firm and statuesque verdict, the only true certainty of everyone.

 ‘400 Slag’ shows Kent has understood everything about how a rock record should start.

Kent's sixth album 'Du Och Jag Döden' delivers a powerful mix of dark Scandinavian tones and cryptic, personal lyrics. With 11 emotionally intense tracks, it blends melancholic melodies and strong musical arrangements. The album showcases the band's evolution from indie rock beginnings to mature electronic-infused rock. Key tracks include the explosive opener '400 Slag' and the memorable closer 'Mannen I den vita hatten (16 år senare)'. This work closes a chapter in Kent's career, praised for its creativity and depth. Dive into Kent's haunting 'Du Och Jag Döden' and experience one of the decade's most compelling rock albums.

 This bold young man with the stylish tuft offers us one of the freshest and most vital rock’n’roll of the last decade.

 Nathan Williams’ just havin’ fun!

Wavves' King Of The Beach is a refreshing indie rock album featuring energetic and catchy songs with a solid production. Nathan Williams moves beyond his early noisy style to deliver a vibrant mix influenced by punk and surf rock schools. The album balances youthful psychedelia with memorable melodies reminiscent of classic bands like the Beach Boys and the Ramones. Despite some past controversies around Williams, the album stands strong as a fun and vital contribution to indie music. Dive into Wavves’ King Of The Beach and experience a fresh wave of catchy and vital indie rock!

 "Spirit" - the opening track - certainly the best track. An enticing drum machine, a rhythm around 100 bpm, a piano similar to a keyboard, with a dreamy and disillusioned voice...

 "Oltre-Passo," a desire to go beyond and break free from something that holds or perhaps oppresses.

Aidala's 1988 EP 'Oltre-Passo' presents a unique, original sound blending indie ballads with dreamy and cryptic autobiographical lyrics. Though a semi-amateur release on a small label, it features engaging instrumentation like clarinet solos and drum machines. The work conveys bittersweet hope and a desire to transcend limitations. Despite limited exposure, Aidala's craftsmanship and atmosphere stand out, marking this as a hidden gem from the Italian new wave era. Listen to Aidala’s evocative 'Oltre-Passo' EP and discover a rare Italian musical treasure from the late 80s.

 A handful of songs all around 4 minutes, with high-speed whips like the opener 'Sacrifice' or the celebratory 'Motor Man'.

 Scott Travis, who only a couple of years later would become known to the metal world for his contribution to the Judas Priest cause.

Racer X's Second Heat (1988) continues their high-speed, technical metal style enriched by a new second guitarist and drummer. The album balances fast, neoclassical-inspired solos with more melodic and accessible tracks. Notable is the inclusion of a David Bowie cover and a track linked to Judas Priest. Vocals are powerful though occasionally strained. This album marks the end of Racer X's first active period before members moved on to other successful projects. Discover Racer X’s Second Heat—listen now for a thrilling mix of speed and melody!

 Nothing is spared; natural disasters, sex, religion, the malaise of living, vices, virtues, wealth, corruption.

 Faust'O offers a portrait of the world, bitter and irreverent, mocking everything and everyone, without mincing words and false moralism.

Faust'O's 'Suicidio' is a deeply provocative and pioneering Italian rock album from the late 1970s blending punk, glam, and post-punk influences. Its sharp, irreverent lyrics target societal corruption, moral hypocrisy, and personal despair, marking it as a cult classic. Despite the artist's personal reservations about the album, it remains a significant, raw portrayal of its era’s underground music scene. The album's theatrical and stark sound, along with bold lyrics, connects to broader influences like Bowie and Lou Reed while standing uniquely Italian. Explore Faust'O's 'Suicidio'—a daring Italian rock classic that still resonates with raw rebellion and poetic power.

 I had to put my personal opinions aside, I forgot (even if just for a moment...) Tony Mills and I listened to this album... and what a blast!

 The album is truly something successful, rousing songs that could make even a priest and a nun shake together.

The review reflects a long-standing personal bias against Shy, especially with Tony Mills as singer, but admits that the 1994 album 'Welcome To The Madhouse' is a strong hard rock effort. Featuring Wardi on vocals, the band embraced a fuller, party metal style contrary to grunge trends of the time. Despite some weaker tracks, the album offers rousing, memorable songs and excellent production by Neil Kernon. Though Shy later faded, this album remains a high point worthy of recognition. Listen to Shy's 'Welcome To The Madhouse' and experience a bold 90s hard rock surprise!

 I challenge you not to be moved the first time you hear his voice.

 These 12 songs give meaning to the wait for what comes 'after', whether beautiful or bleak.

Circa Survive's album Blue Sky Noise is described as a profoundly emotional and spiritual musical journey. The reviewer highlights Anthony Green's moving vocals and the album's atmospheric power. It requires patience to fully appreciate, but ultimately delivers a unique listening experience. The album’s artwork by Esao Andrews complements its mood, marking a new phase for the band. Key tracks like "Imaginary Enemy" resonate deeply with the listener. Dive into Circa Survive's Blue Sky Noise and experience an unforgettable emotional journey – listen now and feel every note!

 Beethoven himself was aware that he had written nothing but consumer music.

 All three Quartets are imbued with brief musical hints, melodic ideas, or harmonic inspirations... which will be found in many Piano Sonatas.

Beethoven’s 3 Quartets WoO 36, composed at age fifteen, represent his early developmental phase during the Bonn period. These youthful works are less accomplished compared to his prior piano pieces and reflect his own judgment as mere 'consumer music.' Although unfinished and uneven in ensemble cohesion, they provide valuable insight into Beethoven’s emerging musical ideas and compositional process. The review highlights the recording by the Amadeus Quartet and Christoph Eschenbach, noting its historical value despite technical limitations. Discover Beethoven’s early quartets and witness the roots of a musical genius in these youthful chamber works. Listen and explore now!

 Thanks also to the sonic wall of the triple guitar and the great drumming work, the group delivers 11 tracks of pure hardcore violence fused with the technicalities of modern death metal.

 It is not a simple album to listen to, but for those who like the genre, some songs from this album cannot be missing from their playlist.

Whitechapel's second album 'This Is Exile' showcases intense deathcore with intricate guitar work, powerful drumming, and guttural vocals. The Knoxville band blends brutality with technical skill, making several tracks essential for genre fans. The review provides a detailed track-by-track breakdown, highlighting highlights like the title track and closing epic. It's a challenging but rewarding listen for extreme metal enthusiasts. Dive into Whitechapel's 'This Is Exile'—experience relentless deathcore intensity now!

 Wakeford proves to be a passionate painter who, with broad strokes, neglecting details, faithfully portrays the dark landscapes that torment his soul.

 What If... represents the next step in a personal and unique artistic journey that started long ago and pauses on a strange form of apocalyptic chamber music.

The review reflects on Tony Wakeford’s new full-length project Orchestra Noir - What If..., highlighting its melancholic blend of chamber music, folk, and ambient styles. While some tracks feel inconsistent or underdeveloped, the album showcases Wakeford’s matured vision beyond his earlier, more rigid projects. The music evokes intimate and introspective atmospheres, marked by evocative piano, strings, and guest vocalists. Overall, this album presents a unique, if fluctuating, artistic journey into refined apocalyptic chamber music. Discover the haunting beauty of Orchestra Noir's 'What If...'—immerse yourself in this unique journey through chamber and folk-inspired soundscapes.

 Read this book, we need to begin to understand Africa, rather than just talk about it.

 A coming-of-age novel, as was said, undoubtedly so (there is the inner growth, as well as the physical growth, of Jama).

Mamba Boy, Nadifa Mohamed's first novel, follows young Jama on a difficult journey to find his father in 1930s-40s Africa and the Horn of Africa. The story blends coming-of-age themes with historical context and colonial tensions, highlighting personal and regional struggles. The novel is well-written and offers readers a fresh perspective on African history and identity. It is recommended alongside similar works like Half of a Yellow Sun to foster greater understanding. Discover the rich storytelling of Mamba Boy—read Nadifa Mohamed’s powerful debut novel today!