Recommended Italian bands. Popular bands from abroad.

Dietro L’Intima RagioneBlastema

Blastema – Dietro L’Intima Ragione (Official Video) – Sanremo 2013

Formed in 1997 in Forlì, Italy, BrasteMa creates soul-stirring music grounded in alternative rock.

Their hallmarks are passionate vocals, powerful guitar riffs, and unforgettable lyrics.

They released the album “Pensieri illuminati” in 2010, and at the 2013 Sanremo Music Festival their song “Dietro l’intima ragione” placed fourth in the newcomers category.

This achievement showcased their musical identity, and they have also supported acts such as Skunk Anansie.

With songs that deliver themes of self-discovery and love through passionate performances, they’re recommended for anyone seeking the depth of Italian rock and powerful, emotionally resonant vocals.

AltroveEugenio In Via Di Gioia

Eugenio In Via Di Gioia – Altrove

In Italy’s music scene, one band shines with a particularly bright glow: Eugenio in Via Di Gioia.

Formed in Turin in 2012, they began their career performing on the streets.

While grounded in indie folk and pop, they skillfully weave in elements of traditional Italian music, swing, and dancehall, creating a sound that lifts listeners’ spirits.

In 2014, they released their debut album, Lorenzo Federici.

Their song Tsunami, which won the Mia Martini Critics’ Award at the 2020 Sanremo Music Festival, is widely recognized as one of their signature tracks.

In addition to this accolade, their Critics’ Award at the Premio Buscaglione in their debut year is also noteworthy.

Their music often addresses social themes such as environmental issues, yet delivers them through approachable melodies.

They’re a perfect choice for those seeking music that pairs exhilarating melodies with profound messages, or anyone eager to explore distinctive sounds from Italy.

Una Vita In VacanzaLo Stato Sociale

Lo Stato Sociale – Una Vita In Vacanza (Sanremo 2018)

Lo Stato Sociale, an unconventional five-piece from Bologna, Italy, blend indie rock and electropop with a distinctive flair, earning popularity for songs that weave together social satire and humor.

They burst onto the music scene in 2010 with the EP “Welfare Pop,” and drew widespread attention with their 2012 album “Turisti della democrazia.” Their signature song “Una vita in vacanza” took second place at the 2018 Sanremo Music Festival, topped the Italian singles chart, and achieved double platinum status—an outstanding feat.

With numerous accolades including the Targa Giovani Mei award and a reputation for energetic live shows, their sharp, satirical lyrics and exhilarating sound offer fresh discoveries for anyone seeking excitement in everyday life and a reason to reflect on society.

IstriceSubsonica

Istrice

Subsonica is an innovative electro-rock band from Turin.

Since their formation in 1996, they have deftly blended rock, electronica, and dance, bringing a fresh breeze to the Italian music scene.

A defining trait of their work is the social message embedded in their music.

They debuted in 1997 with the album “Subsonica” and became widely known for “Tutti i miei sbagli,” featured on the album “Microchip Emozionale.” Their accolades include wins at the MTV Europe Music Awards, and in 2024 they received the David di Donatello Award for Best Score for the soundtrack to the film “Adagio,” underscoring the high regard for their artistry.

Their energetic live shows are not to be missed.

Highly recommended for those seeking music that defies conventional boundaries and carries profound messages.

Nuotando Nell’ariaMarlene Kuntz

Marlene Kuntz – Nuotando Nell’aria

Marlene Kuntz have been forging their own path in Italy’s alternative rock scene since their formation in 1988.

Fusing noise rock and post-hardcore with literary depth, they craft music in Italian whose lyrics leave a deep imprint on listeners.

Their 1994 debut album, Catartica, made a powerful impact, and they cemented their status with classics like Il vile.

They even appeared at the Sanremo Music Festival in 2012.

Nominated for an MTV Europe Music Award in 2001, they have received high acclaim, with their songs for the film Tutta colpa di Giuda earning a 2010 David di Donatello nomination.

Highly recommended for those seeking sharp, emotionally rich sounds.

Fuel For My HatredSlowmotion Apocalypse

Slowmotion Apocalypse – Fuel For My Hatred

I thought this song would make you involuntarily fired up.

The radical melody that sweeps away any sense of refinement is worth listening to.

The soul’s cry, as if wrestling with something, runs through the entire track.

It makes me want to aim for a complete cover of this song.

Jade’s PlaceDESTRAGE

DESTRAGE – Jade’s Place – OFFICIAL VIDEO

I thought the music video was distinctive because it shows the singer performing in a place with turning gears.

The singer also does some unique choreography, which I felt showed good taste.

The song feels very energetic, and it seems like you’d get more and more fired up as you listen.