I first discovered the music of Rome, Italy-based folk singer songwriter Moscato for this blog around this time last year through his immersive album The Path of Least Resistance. Now, I’m pleased to say he’s back with a new EP. Written during the pandemic, and an attempt to capture the feeling of it sonically, it’s a mix of acoustic folk and electronica. It’s called Four Seasons In A Small Box.
By Graeme Smith
The EP open with Q01 White Silence (Apparent peace). ‘Peace’ is the operative word in the early running, with a dreamy, delicate feel in its opening. Yet, the ‘apparent’ part comes to the fore as the track progresses, with a growing complexity and sense of unease. Moscato sets himself apart from contemporaries like Bon Iver and Sigur Ròs by singing in phonemes rather than words and the idea works well here. It’s a strong and atmospheric start.
F53 The doubts of the clouds (Morning hysteria) comes next. The sense of unease grows stronger with pensive percussion, minimal piano and other offbeat instrumentals creating a challenging yet captivating soundscape. As the track progresses, the percussion becomes livelier and more urgent and we are greeted with a rousing climax.
G86 The smell of a distant song (Circular game) treats us to layers of echoing vocals and music box-esque percussion, feeling almost ecclesiastical in its composition. K79 The smile of a thought (Autumn illusion) is a bright moment, with laidback bass, twinkling high notes and soothing vocals. Our journey then ends with J24 The roar of a falling drop (Timeless lightness). It’s the collection’s most experimental moment, edging over the line into lo-fi at times, and always beautifully ambient.
It’s been so long since I’ve listened to The Path of Least Resistance, I’d forgotten just how inventive and stunning Moscato’s sound is. Four Seasons In A Box is a timely reminder of just how exciting his music can be and I certainly won’t be leaving it so long to return to it next time. If you’re a fan of electronic folk then you’re going to find a lot to love in this EP. Even if you don’t think you are, you’ll be able to relate to its emotional landscape. You can check out the full EP below.
