Artist: Carmen Consoli Album: Mediamente isterica

Year: 1998
Duration: 54:47

A Critical Review of Carmen Consoli's 'Mediamente Isterica' Album

Carmen Consoli is an Italian singer-songwriter known for her unique music style that blends traditional Sicilian sounds with rock, pop, and folk influences. Her album 'Mediamente Isterica' released in 1998 was a game-changer in the Italian music industry, winning her many accolades and critical acclaim. In this blog post, we will explore the history of Carmen Consoli, the music genre of the album, the best songs of the album, the most innovative parts, and a critique of the album.

Carmen Consoli hails from the southern Italian city of Catania, Sicily, and began her musical journey at the age of 15 when she formed a rock band. Her early influences include Italian singer-songwriters such as Lucio Battisti and Franco Battiato, as well as international legends like Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell. Consoli’s music style is characterized by her poetic lyrics, soulful voice, and the use of traditional Sicilian instruments such as the tamburello, a type of percussion, and the mandolin.

'Mediamente Isterica' is a unique blend of traditional and modern sounds, with each song featuring a distinct instrumental arrangement. The album falls under the categories of alternative rock, acoustic rock, and folk. It was also the first album in Italy to be recorded entirely in a professional home studio, giving it a raw and organic sound.

The album features ten songs, each with a unique message and story. Some of the best songs of the album include 'Madre Terra,' where Consoli sings about environmental concerns, and 'In Bianco E Nero,' a love song that showcases her sultry vocals. 'Parole Di Burro,' the first single from the album, talks about the search for authenticity in a world full of falsehood, and 'Tutto Su Quella Notte' is a haunting ballad about difficult choices.

The most innovative part of the album is how Consoli blends Sicilian sounds with modern rock and pop elements. Her use of traditional instruments such as the tamburello and mandolin in songs like 'In Bianco E Nero' and 'Venere' adds depth and richness to the music. Also, her poetic and socially conscious lyrics reflect the Italian zeitgeist of the late '90s.

While 'Mediamente Isterica' was received positively overall, some critics found the album to be too melancholic and serious. In contrast to her previous albums, which were more upbeat, Consoli's introspective approach might have been a turn-off for some listeners. Some also criticized her singing style, saying that it lacked variety and range.

Carmen Consoli's 'Mediamente Isterica' album is a brilliant piece of work that showcases her unique blend of traditional Sicilian sounds with modern rock and pop. Her poetic lyrics and soulful voice transport the listener to a different world, and her use of traditional instruments adds depth and richness to the music. While some might find the album too melancholic and serious, it remains a testament to Consoli's artistic vision and her contribution to the Italian music industry.

Carmen Consoli's 'Mediamente Isterica' album is a brilliant piece of work that showcases her unique blend of traditional Sicilian sounds with modern rock and pop. Her poetic lyrics and soulful voice transport the listener to a different world, and her use of traditional instruments adds depth and richness to the music. While some might find the album too melancholic and serious, it remains a testament to Consoli's artistic vision and her contribution to the Italian music industry.