Rome – Civitas Solis (Digital/CD Album – Trisol)
Jérôme Reuter remains an incredibly productive artist, driven by his unwavering commitment—and vice versa. With this new work, inspired by philosopher Tommaso Campanella’s utopian novel, he offers a critical perspective and thoughtful reflection on the current state of Europe and the world. It feels like a natural progression from his previous albums, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
No fewer than 14 tracks were completed, in which he masterfully weaves together his familiar influences. Rome has evolved into a true symbiosis of Neo-Folk and Chanson, blending bombastic arrangements with moments of refined, deep melancholia. The guitar carries the emotional weight, while the synths lift the atmosphere with an almost transcendent quality.
Once again, the album features subtle, compelling gems, with Reuter’s deep, distinctive vocal timbre playing a dark, dominant role. He feels like the imaginary heir of Brel, Cohen, and Cave—but with an even darker, more intense edge. At times, the songs could have been slightly longer, and while this may not be my favorite Rome album, it remains an essential addition to his impressive discography. (Rating:8½).
Reuter announced “Civitas Solis” in April 2025 alongside two sibling releases, “The Dublin Sessions II” and “Anthology 2016-2025”, all issued through Trisol Music Group.
Listen to “Mar’Yana”:
https://civitassolis.bandcamp.com/track/maryana
About Rome
Jérôme Reuter, born on August 2, 1981, in Luxembourg, is the creative force behind the neofolk project Rome, formed in November 2005. Before founding Rome, Reuter was involved in various musical endeavors, including performing under the moniker Reggie Fain, influenced by Tom Waits, participating in the Oi! band the Skinflicks, and contributing to the post-punk outfit Mack Murphy and the Inmates.
Rome’s music is characterized by a fusion of military drumming, atmospheric electronic textures, and ethereal acoustic guitars, complemented by samples and poetic lyrics that often explore themes of war, love, pain, and death. Reuter draws inspiration from literary figures such as Jacques Brel, Léo Ferré, Albert Camus, Ernst Jünger, and Jean Genet.
“Civitas Solis” takes its title from Tommaso Campanella’s 1602 utopian novel of the same name and was released the same day as the folk-oriented “The Dublin Sessions II”.
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