Claudio Milano / Erna Franssens: Adython (2012)

Italian composer and vocalist CLAUDIO MILANO have been around for a few years now, and while it's his contributions as vocalist in avantgarde band Nichelodeon that arguably is where he's made most of an impact he also issued a solo album back in 2004. "Adython" is his second solo project, and is a collaborative effort with lyricist Erna Franssens. The CD was released in January 2012, and is exclusively available from Italian label dEn Records.

Those familiar with Milano's various escapades will not be surprised to know that we're once again dealing with a production that resides within the heartland of avantgarde music on this occasion. Everything is centered around his vocal skills, covering a range most vocalists will envy him and with a vast repertoire in delivery. Expect the unexpected, and expect to be surprised. Both in terms of delivery of choice as well as just how Milano manage to utilize his vocal talents. Purified experimental in nature, and with seemingly boundless creativity, venturing where few vocalists have dared or been able to go before. And while I suspect that the lyrics of Franssens suits this type of delivery quite well, that aspect of this CD is on suspicion only as I'm not fluent nor even vaguely familiar with the Italian language.

But the contributions by Attila Faravelli, Alfonso Santimone and Stefano Ferrian suits the material very well. Faravalli adds a minimalistic electronic touch on opening piece L’Oracolo Di Delfi, rhythmic sounds, fragmented effects and occasional drones. The minimalistic nature of this supporting layer nicely contrasting Milano's flamboyant vocal escapades, but also supplementing the largely non-melodic and non-harmonic nature of the composition as such in a logical manner. Not quite my cup of tea admittedly, but the sheer skill of this performance is hypnotic in itself, resulting in an enjoyable experience despite the challenging and rather taxing nature of this relatively broef opening piece, clocking in at a mere 15 minutes or thereabouts.

Title track Adython is the sophisticated older brother of the opening piece. Twice as long and then some, sporting a fair degree of arrangements richer in scope. Multiple layers are more common throughout, and even when not the electronic additions courtesy of Santimone are generally of a slightly less minimalistic nature. Ferrian's sax does add another dimension to this construction too, and further enhancing the experience are electronically treated vocals and saxophone. An effect sparingly but effectively used, and as with everything else on this disc in an unpredictable manner.

"Adython" isn't an album that will have a widespread appeal, as far as commercial music goes this production is a good representative of the opposite. Highly unpredictable throughout, experimental and minimalistic in nature, firmly residing deep inside the avantgarde universe. And comes recommended to those who are enticed by such a description, and in particular if a vocals dominated effort of this kind sounds intriguing.

My rating: 70/100
Track list:
1. L’Oracolo Di Delfi
2. Adython