Producer and songwriter Simone Contin captures attention beautifully, with the creatively balanced fusion of rock traits that is Nella mia testa.
Featuring the expressive vocals of singer Eric Castiglia, Nella mia testa is a seven-track EP with a unique meeting between full rock intensity and melodic pop warmth. This contrast is evident from the opening instrumental of Apnea, the intertwining of distortion and those subtle, colourful keys. It’s also shown well in the vocal melody – distinct and theatrical, even gritty, but with short lines that rise in a familiar fashion towards an impassioned and satisfying resolve.
Songwriting and great arrangements are the beating heart of this project. Simone Contin sets the mood and connects regardless of any perceived language barriers – the grooves are engaging, the vocals evocative and bold, and the instrumental pairing is consistently creative.
Sabato further blends the smoothness of rise and fall synths with the heavier darkness of distorted guitars, before Cenere presents a well-placed moment of mellow contemplation that’s beautifully enchanting. Then for the title-track, Nella mia testa delivers a musical highlight both uplifting and imaginative. It’s a meditative soundscape but with doubled vocals that are mighty and quick to peak. This one is an anthem for sure, and draws keen interest in the live side of things.
Through Specchio the energy remains high, while Sai che c’e redirects us towards a pop-rock setting of quiet and calm that’s naturally soaked in good vibes. This track is really well-placed for diversity and dynamic as we approach the closer, at which point iIl mondo scompare injects a soaring guitar solo and a fiercely immersive set-up to bring things to an immense and memorable finish.
Simone Contin masters the artform here, intertwining original songwriting with a clear sense of character and a style that’s timeless yet humbly distinct. The rock album Nella mia testa is a pleasure to lose yourself in for a while.
Find Simone Contin on Instagram & his Website.
