RISVEGLIO

This brilliant debut release from Egonon convinces me that the band are truly one to watch for all RPI lovers. Incorporating a diverse range of instruments into their sound - including oud, sitar, sarangi, trombone, flugelhorn, cello, bansoori and darkuka - might have come across as gimmicky if Egonon didn't do such an absolutely superb job of incorporating their sounds into their music. And the instrumentation isn't the only unusual influence they bring to bear; evolving the classic RPI sound of yesteryear by incorporating substantially more heavy elements (including one memorable segment which resembles a metalcore breakdown backed by some gorgeous classical acoustic guitar), Egonon demonstrate that they aren't a simple nostalgia act either. Drawing on musical influences spanning decades and sounding thoroughly modern with it, Egonon prove with this album that the RPI scene has plenty of surprises to offer yet.