De Strangers - Chant Away (La Tempesta Dischi)

The album’s title, ‘Chant Away’, encourages liberation through song and rhythm, inviting listeners to face adversities with courage and determination. However, the duo themselves describe the project more succinctly: “In the life of each of us, challenges and difficulties shape our being. Every experience leaves an indelible mark, memories, and emotions that accompany us wherever we go. It is this personal background that allows us to create authentic art and music. We worked on the lyrics and arrangements with engaging rhythms and melodies that try to capture the essence of life itself. Through this work, we invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences and find the inner strength to face difficulties with confidence and strength of spirit!”.

The album kicks off with ‘Warriors’, a solid UK stepper featuring Venetian Patois Brothers, whom we still remembered from their 2017 release ‘Wise & Wild’. Other guest appearances include Rootical Foundation vocalist Teo Rootical from Turin, who brings a more Cali-reggae vibe to ‘Island Breeze’, and Galas, known for his collaborations with the Senegalese Amoul Bayi Family, who features on ‘No Justice’. However, we were particularly drawn to ‘Rebel Healing’, a great stepper duet with Jamaican veteran Prince Alla.

Other highlights include the lovers rock vibes of ‘Stay With Me’, the rootsy ‘Taking Over’, and the dub-infused ‘See Them Fallin”.

Released on the La Tempesta Dischi label, ‘Chant Away’ unsurprisingly features the ever-present Paolo Baldini, who delivers a closing dub version and instant sound-killer of the aforementioned ‘Rebel Healing’ with Prince Alla.

The striking album cover, designed by Nana Della Porta, depicts a giant laden with instruments traversing a landscape, symbolizing De Strangers’ mission to spread their music beyond geographical and cultural boundaries, bringing people together.

Italian newcomers definitely worth keeping an eye on!