MEDIOCRAZIA

Last year was quite a year for wonderful new EPs. This debut EP from Italian band Il Rumore Bianco (The White Noise) is no different. However, I will certainly say that their EP, "Mediocrazia" (Mediocracy), is perhaps the most complex and classy EP from the past year. This band combines a taste of the old and a bit of the new to create a sound that I'm actually quite excited to hear.

Il Rumore Bianco combines influences from the past, such as King Crimson, with more modern prog sounds, such as Porcupine Tree. Their 100% Italian vocals also help give away their obvious influence by the Italian prog scene, too, though it can also be found in their keyboard work. Honestly, this band's sound is a bit difficult to describe. It's a bit diverse. One track will feature a steel-hard, guitar-driven style of rock, while another will be led by eerie, funky saxophone. All the while, though, we are treated to some excellent keys that fill the atmosphere with class and maturity.

To be honest, the first track failed to grab my attention on my first listen. However, by the time I got to "Il Primo Attore", I was hooked on the surreal soundscape that this young band creates. It's interesting, fresh, and a little crazy at times. The album is often placid and mellow, and I think that's what I like most about it. I really prefer the sax-driven tracks, as they feel more experimental and have more personality.

In the end, Il Rumore Bianco definitely has tons of personality. They mix sounds without ever coming across as derivative or copycats. "Mediocrazia" has me excited for future LPs from this band. Check out the EP, as it is free on their bandcamp page.