Muddy Waters transforms the chair he’s sitting on into a throne and the guitar into a scepter.

 It’s Blues that saved the Rolling Stones... they said no to becoming pop in the name of Chicago’s Blues tradition.

This review celebrates the 1981 live performance at Chicago's Checkerboard Lounge featuring Muddy Waters and The Rolling Stones. It highlights the intimate atmosphere, exceptional musicianship, and cultural significance of the event. The review praises the fusion of blues roots and rock energy, emphasizing the respect and homage paid by the Stones to their blues origins. It also notes the concert package's high value and rarity of the film footage. Dive into the legendary 1981 live blues concert with Muddy Waters and The Rolling Stones—listen, watch, and feel the soul of Chicago blues!

 What is really surprising is not so much his participation in Eurovision but how he managed to come first in the Swiss national selection.

 Mr. Esteriore’s vocals are to say the least irritating and annoying, it was torture just having to listen to it all to review it.

This review harshly critiques Piero Esteriore & The Musicstars' 2004 Eurovision entry from Switzerland. The author finds the song poorly produced, vocally irritating, and overall embarrassing. Despite winning the Swiss selection, the track is described as a musical disaster, especially in its live version. The review serves as a reminder of Eurovision’s less memorable moments. Dive into this brutally honest Eurovision review and discover the Swiss entry that shocked fans in 2004!

 Certain gags haven’t lost their freshness despite the years.

 It’s lovely that the new artist declares his love for Castelli and Fagarazzi in this way.

The review fondly reflects on 'The Return of Tilt,' a collection celebrating Alfredo Castelli and Daniele Fagarazzi’s iconic comic series from the 1970s. It highlights the series’ unique blend of absurdity, parody, and social commentary anchored in Italian culture. The review appreciates the fresh humor that remains relevant despite some dated references. Nostalgia for the era and praise for the artwork complete this heartfelt appraisal. Dive into the absurd and nostalgic world of Tilt—discover a classic Italian comic gem today!

 To have the ticket to access these musical contents, you must uncompromisingly be a great big jerk...

 "Walk to the Fire, pedal on..." with just one discharge to make you snap out of it or disintegrate.

The review praises Monoshock’s 'Walk to the Fire' for its unfiltered, aggressive noise punk sound that confronts polished musical norms. It highlights the album’s brutal, apocalyptic atmosphere and the emotional catharsis it offers. The reviewer reflects on the discomfort and pleasure the music invokes, underscoring its intense and chaotic nature. Ultimately, the album is positioned as a challenging but rewarding experience for those willing to embrace its raw energy. Explore Monoshock’s intense noise punk album 'Walk to the Fire' and experience a raw, uncompromising sonic journey today!

 "It’s a little gem, the kind that only come around a few times in a lifetime."

 "No studio recording tricks, just a voice, a few guitars, and a series of anecdotes shared between the songs."

L'Ostaria Delle Dame captures intimate live performances by Francesco Guccini from the early 1980s, revealing rare, unreleased songs and humorous anecdotes. The 2-CD set showcases a raw, genuine atmosphere with excellent audio restoration. This album is a must-have for dedicated fans and lovers of Italian folk music, offering a unique glimpse into Guccini's casual yet poetic artistry. Dive into Francesco Guccini’s rare live recordings now and experience his timeless folk magic up close!

 "Mar Adentro marked their first big success, immediately capturing listeners with its romantic lyrics and melody."

 "This is surely the most intimate album of the band, different from the more known rock style to the international public."

El Mar No Cesa is the debut album from Spanish rock band Heroes del Silencio, showcasing an intimate, versatile mix of rock, new wave, and Mediterranean influences. Despite a somewhat pop-oriented production that didn’t fully capture the band’s live energy, the album achieved platinum status in Spain. Tracks like "Mar Adentro" and "Héroe de Leyenda" highlight the poetic lyrics and distinct voice of Enrique Bunbury. This album remains a classic for fans appreciating both the band's musical roots and their evolving style. Listen to 'El Mar No Cesa' to explore the roots of Heroes del Silencio’s legendary rock sound!

 Her powerful and passionate interpretation makes the listener almost walk down Via Chiaia, sensing the voices, scents, and colors that make it unique.

 'Scendo da coppe e quartiere' is a heartfelt and vibrant tribute to the love she feels for a romantic city like Naples.

Giusy Attanasio’s single 'Scengo da Coppe e Quartiere' is a heartfelt homage to Naples, particularly the iconic Via Chiaia. The song vibrantly captures the neighborhood’s atmosphere and emotional warmth. Through a blend of traditional and modern melodies, Giusy brings the city’s stories and essence to life with passionate vocals. This musical journey immerses listeners in the unique sights, sounds, and emotions of the Neapolitan street life. Discover the soulful sounds of Naples—listen to Giusy Attanasio's 'Scengo da Coppe e Quartiere' today!

 You can’t feed the public an anthology not properly remastered.

 Hearing the crackle of a 45 rpm with the voice fading in and out, the audio randomly switching from mono to stereo, shows an evident sense of widespread sloppiness.

This review critically examines the 'Tutto Modugno: Mr Volare 1956-1964' anthology by Domenico Modugno. While it praises the careful omission of lesser later works and the inclusion of original tracks, it criticizes the poor sound remastering, inconsistent audio quality, and cheap packaging. The reviewer acknowledges the album’s value but is disappointed by the overall presentation. Modugno’s genius remains unquestioned despite the anthology’s flaws. Discover Domenico Modugno’s classic hits, but beware of this anthology’s audio flaws—listen and decide for yourself!

 The dangerous congregation faced within the pages of Traumnovelle is not the core of the work.

 With savoir faire, we are shown an exit to cross never to return.

This review offers a thoughtful analysis of Arthur Schnitzler's Traumnovelle, focusing on the themes of hidden desires, power dynamics, and the complexity of monogamous relationships within bourgeois society. It highlights the protagonist's journey through temptation and self-discovery, with references to the novel's intimate psychological portrayal and notable film adaptations like Eyes Wide Shut. The review cautions against focusing solely on the mystery, emphasizing relational dynamics instead. Discover the profound depths of desire and power in Schnitzler's Traumnovelle—read the book or watch its iconic adaptations today!

 "Bees are better than humans. At most, some people can be like bees, but most cannot."

 Kurkov narrates a minimal and bleak life with a dry prose laced with sharp jokes and amusing descriptions.

Andrei Kurkov’s Api Grigie combines a poetic simplicity with a stark portrayal of life in war-torn Ukraine’s no man’s land. The protagonist, Sergey, tends bees amidst bombings while navigating mistrust and the upheaval caused by conflict. The novel contrasts the purposeful, quiet life of bees with the brutality and uncertainty of humans during the war. Through delicate prose and dark humor, Kurkov captures the absurdity and sadness of a divided land. Api Grigie is a haunting and thoughtful reflection on survival and hope. Explore the poetic harshness of war through Api Grigie — read the novel and witness the fragile beauty of life amidst conflict.

 The performance of the main actors is impeccable, complemented by the precise and meticulous evocation of an era tormented by extremist armed struggle.

 In the absence of undeniable proof, the presumption of innocence must always prevail.

Cedric Kahn's 'The Goldman Trial' masterfully presents a tense courtroom drama set in 1970s France, focusing on the appeal trial of Pierre Goldman. The film vividly captures the political unrest and extremist struggles of the era. Strong performances and a meticulous depiction of the trial highlight the difficulty in separating fact from character bias. The movie prompts reflection on justice and prejudice within judicial processes. It is a compelling and thoughtful portrayal of a complex historical case. Discover the gripping judicial drama of 'The Goldman Trial' and explore the complex history of 1970s France through this intense film.

 "Love's Secret Domain" is a hallucinatory journey into the recesses of the human mind.

 The album bursts forth with wonderful arrangements and sound inventions that anticipate the UK's acid wave of the late '70s.

Love's Secret Domain stands out as Coil's most accessible yet complex album during its period. It diverges from their earlier industrial sound, embracing IDM and pioneering acid wave elements. The album features haunting vocals, experimental arrangements, and a psychedelic atmosphere. It remains a small classic and a vivid hallucinatory journey. Notable contributions include Annie Anxiety and Marc Almond. Dive into Coil's Love's Secret Domain and experience a timeless psychedelic classic that reshapes electronic music.

 References to Floyd, Porcupine Tree, and Anathema come to mind, but without going overboard with the metal.

 An unusual album with spoken inserts accompanied by cinematic space atmospheres that smell of sci-fi.

The Aurora Project’s 2005 album 'Unspoken Words' offers a captivating blend of symphonic progressive metal with atmospheric and cinematic sci-fi elements. Influences like Floyd, Porcupine Tree, and Anathema are clear but balanced. The album mixes thoughtful, deliberate moments with energetic symphonic metal seamlessly. It's recommended for fans of the genre seeking both melody and atmosphere. The reviewer encourages listeners to explore this intriguing and unusual album. Explore The Aurora Project’s 'Unspoken Words' and dive into a unique symphonic prog metal journey today!

 Milan soon makes him forget the purpose of his trip.

 "Just had to wait for the ambulance to arrive... The next day, I read that a sixty-five-year-old unidentified drunk had died from a fracture of the cranial base."

La Vita Agra by Luciano Bianciardi offers a critical and personal glimpse into Italy’s 1960s economic boom from the perspective of a disenchanted idealist. The novel contrasts the protagonist’s early revolutionary intentions with the harsh realities of Milanese urban life, alienation, and relentless work demands. Vivid scenes like the death of a drunk man highlight social indifference. The story intertwines love, dreams, and fatigue under the shadow of industrial capitalism. Read La Vita Agra to explore a gripping portrait of Milan’s economic boom and the human cost beneath the industrial miracle.

 ‘Ci vuole orecchio’ finally sees him at his highest levels. Very high.

 ‘Silvano’ is a lexical masterpiece, as well as musical, with phrases that deeply resonate.

This review praises Enzo Jannacci's 1980 album 'Ci vuole orecchio' as one of his top works, marking a return to form after weaker previous releases. The album’s rich brass sounds and lyrical mastery stand out, especially the collaborations with Cochi e Renato. It balances humor with poignant themes of daily struggles and Milan’s gray outskirts, offering musical complexity and emotional depth. Dive into 'Ci vuole orecchio' and experience Enzo Jannacci's finest musical storytelling—listen now!

 'The combination of prose and music is a perfect blend of gothic, dirty, and hallucinogenic atmospheres, perpetually balancing between reality and nightmare.'

 'Nick Cave throws us left and right, and with a sick, drugged, drunken prose, utterly distressing, he leads us to the dramatic finale that mirrors the initial scene to close the circle.'

The review praises Nick Cave's novel 'The Ass Saw the Angel' for its poetic yet brutal storytelling, set in a haunting 1970s southern US backdrop. The reviewer connects deeply with the blend of Cave's prose and his album 'Tender Prey,' highlighting the dark gothic and hallucinogenic themes. The story follows Euchrid, a mute boy growing up amidst violence and madness, culminating in a disturbing and powerful finale. This immersive reading experience is described as challenging but thoroughly rewarding. Explore Nick Cave's dark gothic world in 'The Ass Saw the Angel'—read the book and let the music take you deeper.

 The title of best alternative album of this first part of the year, as far as I’m concerned, definitely goes to This Could be Texas by English Teacher.

 With English Teacher, there’s not much to understand, you "just" need to trust them.

English Teacher’s album This Could Be Texas stands out as the best alternative release in early 2024. Led by Lily Fontaine, the British post-punk revival band offers a unique blend of edgy pop, vibrant vocals, and dynamic instrumentation. The album skillfully balances diverse sounds without being excessive. It’s recommended to simply trust the band's confident artistry. Listen to English Teacher’s This Could Be Texas and experience 2024’s freshest alternative sound now!

 PFM comes out with an elegant box set... but the third live CD has not a single unreleased piece.

 Anthologies made with little care that discourage the average buyer and plunge the already comatose Italian record market into a comatose state.

PFM's 35… e un minuto anthology marks their 35-year career with a three-CD box set. However, it disappoints by offering no unreleased or rare material. The set includes traditional best-of tracks and familiar live recordings, making it mostly redundant for longtime fans. Though useful for beginners, it fails to invigorate the Italian progressive rock market. Discover why PFM's 35… e un minuto falls short and explore their classic progressive rock legacy.

 The documentary does not go beyond a decent assignment, good only for those approaching the Californian band for the first time.

 The final part of the film turns out to be decidedly cloying, ending with a forced 'volemose bene' spirit.

The Beach Boys documentary on Disney Plus offers a proper but surface-level portrayal of the iconic Californian band. While it covers key moments and struggles, it lacks depth and contextual insight into their musical impact. The film ends on a syrupy, forced note, somewhat undermining the complexity of the band's story and personal tragedies. Overall, it suits newcomers but disappoints those seeking a rich narrative. Discover the rise and challenges of The Beach Boys—watch the documentary and dive deeper into rock history today!

 Totem Comics was a playground, but also a way to express an immense talent.

 This volume (...) represents a tribute to a figure who left a truly unique professional and human legacy.

Pier Luigi Gaspa's review highlights the creative genius of Luca Boschi as showcased in the comic anthology 'Totem. Boschi'. The volume, published by Editoriale Cosmo, collects significant works from Boschi’s time with Totem Comics, revealing a bold and imaginative artist. The review emphasizes Boschi’s anarchic style and cultural depth, with a strong introduction by Luca Raffaeli. This collection stands as a tribute to Boschi’s unique legacy in Italian comic art. Discover Luca Boschi's vibrant comic art in 'Totem. Boschi'—a must-read for comic enthusiasts and art lovers alike!