Recommended Italian bands. Popular bands from abroad.

La prima voltaNegramaro

Negramaro – La prima volta

Negramaro, formed in 1999 in the Apulia region of southern Italy, blend alternative and electronica elements into a pop-rock foundation, distinguished by Giuliano Sangiorgi’s soul-stirring vocals and poetic lyrics.

They debuted in 2003 with the album “Negramaro.” The re-edited album “000577,” released in 2004, drew attention for the track “Come Sempre,” and their 2005 album “Mentre tutto scorre” earned 6× Platinum certification.

The title track “Mentre tutto scorre” was also used as the theme song for the film “La febbre.” Proud recipients of an MTV Europe Music Award, they offer a cinematic, grand sound that’s perfect for listeners seeking a stirring, dramatic musical experience.

The Hurricane MasterDomine

Domine – The Hurricane Master

I felt an epic, powerful energy in this song, as if it could sweep everyone up with it.

The CD jacket depicting flames is also a must-see.

I hope this intense, whirlwind-raising track gets featured on Japanese music programs.

Emerald SwordRhapsody of Fire

Rhapsody Of Fire- Emerald Sword

This song feels valiant, and listening to it makes me feel like I’ve become a hero.

I thought it would be perfect as a theme song for an adventure-style game.

The call-and-response part in the middle made me want to shout along too.

Ci Sono Molti Modiafterhours.

Afterhours – Ci Sono Molti Modi ( Live @ Mediolanum Forum, 10/04/2018)

Afterhours, who have secured a firm place in Italy’s alternative rock scene, formed in Milan in 1985.

Although they initially wrote lyrics in English, they switched to their native language with the 1995 album Germi, cementing their domestic following.

They debuted in 1987 with the single “My Bit Boy,” developing an experimental sound that distilled noise and post-punk.

Their landmark album Hai paura del buio? is hailed as a milestone of Italian alternative rock.

In 2009, they won the Critics’ Award at the Sanremo Music Festival, and a film theme song crafted by frontman Manuel Agnelli also received an award, underscoring their artistic acclaim.

Their profound poetic world and passionate performances come highly recommended for listeners seeking compelling rock or wishing to delve into the depths of Italian music.

L’unicaPerturbazione

Perturbazione – L’unica (Official Video)

Perturbazione, a band that shines uniquely in Italy’s indie pop scene.

Formed in 1988, they’re a pop-rock group known for delicate Italian lyrics and a versatile sound.

After releasing the album “Waiting to Happen” in 1998, they switched to Italian-language lyrics.

Their 2002 masterpiece “In circolo” secured their place in the music scene, earning a spot in Rolling Stone Italia’s “100 Most Beautiful Italian Albums.” At the 2014 Sanremo Music Festival, they won the Press Room Award with “L’unica” and placed sixth.

Their artistic experiments—such as painting live during performances—are part of their appeal.

Highly recommended for music fans who value the resonance and musicality of words.

Sole SpentoTimoria

Timoria – Sole Spento

Standing out in Italy’s rock scene, Timoria is an alternative rock band formed in Brescia in 1985.

They skillfully weave elements of hard rock and progressive rock into a rich musical style that at times carries social messages.

They debuted in 1988 with the EP “Macchine e dollari,” and drew attention with the 1990 album “Colori che esplodono.” In particular, their 1993 concept album “Viaggio senza vento” is their signature work, earning the first gold disc in Italian indie rock.

In 1991, their song “L’uomo che ride” won the Critics’ Award at the Sanremo Music Festival.

Their music blends poetic lyrics that sharply observe the human psyche and society with a dramatic sound—perfect for anyone seeking passionate rock.

La Vitta FuggeVision Divine

Vision Divine- La Vitta Fugge

I think this is a song that lets you soak in a unique mood when you listen to it at night.

It feels almost like it’s running out of control—very aggressive.

The performance technique is far beyond what ordinary people can do, and I couldn’t help but be impressed.

I also thought the CD jacket for this track looked really good.