From the depths of Italy’s alternative scene, The Doormen have unleashed their masterful fifth LP, The Truth in a Dark Age, out now via MiaCameretta Records and distributed by Believe. The dynamic duo of Vincenzo Baruzzi and Luca Malatesta continue to refine their distinct identity, pushing the boundaries of experimentation and diving headfirst into the sonic territory of late 80s alternative rock.
The Truth in a Dark Age solidifies The Doormen’s distinct identity, which has been cultivated across their previous four albums, underscoring their insatiable appetite for experimentation. Following their last record’s 90s-inspired sounds, the dynamic duo of Vincenzo Baruzzi and Luca Malatesta ventures into the realm of late 80s alternative rock without sacrificing their art rock sensibilities. Simultaneously vibrant and gentle, the guitars interweave with reverberated vocals, while the drums meld seamlessly with electronic loops and synths. The Doormen’s sonic landscape is a harmonious blend, with the compass needle firmly oriented towards shoegaze and the quintessential 80s wave.
‘The Truth in a Dark Age‘ takes on the characteristics of a concept album, with each song centered around the enigmatic protagonist, The Freak. Introduced in the opening track “Night Shift,” ‘The Freak’ is depicted as a superhero who, after shedding his everyday attire, embarks on a relentless hunt to capture his prey, intending to imprison them and strip them of their love.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn in the fourth track, “A Freak,” as the protagonist finds himself confined to his apartment, unable to pursue his prey any further. This confinement leads him down the path of insanity, as he wrestles with feelings of loneliness and isolation. Ultimately, the album reaches its poignant climax with the final track, “Your Shape Pillow.” In this closing chapter, The Freak faces his deepest fears and embarks on a transformative journey of self-examination and self-discovery.
This existential crisis of the album track “Glass Factory” is illustrated with a gorgeously animated, Kafka-esque video by Elisa Turrini. The nightmare begins in the protagonist’s apartment: she wakes up and soon realizes she’s trapped in a labyrinth…and she’s not alone. In this monochromatic dreamscape, she faces her deepest fears and her sense of helplessness as she attempts to escape.
Watch the video for “Glass Factory” below:
Crafted by the talented Matteo Pozzi, the album cover is part of the narrative: it captures an intimate moment between two lovers on the run, nestled within the confines of a car that doubles as their protective armour. This tender kiss signifies the sole pure and genuine truth amidst the prevailing darkness of the current age. Simultaneously, it symbolizes Original Sin, embodying the temptations that twist the consciences and desires of those who give in to them.
Masterfully straddling the line between noise and post-punk reverberations, The Doormen reinterpret the era’s essence by incorporating synths and electronic loops into their ever-evolving sound.
Hailing from Ravenna, The Doormen emerged as a formidable rock duo in 2009, consisting of Vincenzo Baruzzi (vocals, guitar, drums) and Luca Malatesta (guitar). Their debut EP dropped in November, followed by a self-titled album in March 2011, produced by the revered Paolo Mauri (Afterhours, Le Luci della Centrale Elettrica, La Crus, Prozac +). This exposure propelled them into the Italian music scene, landing them opening spots for iconic acts like Subsonica, Ash, The Vaselines, Preoccupations, The Chameleons, Ministri, Blood Red Shoes, Art Brut, Paul Weller, and the Charlatans.
The Truth in a Dark Age is out now, available on a special green vinyl.
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