Mana ERG – Concealed Under A Stranger Tongue (Digital/CD Album – XBDA)
Mana ERG is the musical alter ego of the Italian artist Bruno de Angelis, who also gained recognition through his project LHAM. Active primarily during the 1990s, he now returns with his first new album in 15 years.
The guitar plays a pivotal role throughout the album, shaping an uncanny yet often ethereal atmosphere that permeates the compositions. Mysterious and at times subtly psychedelic, these soundscapes gradually unfold into a largely Cinematic experience. The tracks are richly layered with field recordings, loops, found sounds, and a wide range of effects, giving the music a distinctly experimental character. Vocals appear only sporadically, functioning more as an additional sonic texture than as a narrative element.
What impresses me most is Bruno de Angelis’ ability to transform the guitar into such evocative and immersive soundscapes. In that respect, he shares a clear artistic affinity with his friend and collaborator Giuseppe Verticchio—also a member of LHAM and widely known for his solo project NIMH. (Rating:7½).
Listen to “How Faint The Tune”:
https://xbda.bandcamp.com/track/how-faint-the-tune
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