In this exclusive column for Atwood Magazine, I delve into the influence of a specific artist and album through my experiences in one or multiple cities. The hope is that my reflections will resonate with you and connect to your own life, enriching our understanding of a particular artist and album in the context of our contemporary world.
•• •• •• ••
Emma Marrone’s seventh studio album, ‘Souvenir,’ fosters deep contemplation about individual significance in a world that emphasizes this necessity in our challenging times, as she delves into existential topics related to mortality, identity, the quest for meaning, and authenticity.
•• ••
Listen: ‘Souvenir’ – Emma
In the Fashion Life of Milano’s Brera
Upon first arriving in Milano, whether by plane or train, one is overwhelmed by emotions as they enter the fashion capital of the world; however, the magic of this dream city only reveals itself through exploration. My discovery began in the Brera district, where I was immediately captivated by the stunning architecture and the lifestyle surrounding me, with high-end boutiques lining the streets and chic individuals sipping red wine at sidewalk cafés under the crisp winter light, all dressed in sunglasses and luxurious winter coats. This enchanting atmosphere prompted me to reflect on my own life, filtered through Emma Marrone’s latest album, SOUVENIR, as her melodies floated through the outdoor bars and nighttime air. I experienced a peculiar sensation that I had walked these streets before, despite never having visited this area of Milano until now.
SOUVENIR – Emma Marrone
For 48 hours, I was engulfed by déjà vu, recognizing faces on the streets that resembled echoes of past lovers, while the sidewalks seemed to have borne my previous steps. Emma’s music prompted vivid memories to resurface as I wandered from our apartment to the Duomo, captivated by the splendid architecture and fleeting moments of extraordinary human beauty.
We strolled into the stunning Milano Starbucks, but instead of coffee, we enjoyed delightful Italian Prosecco while sitting beneath outdoor heaters with a breathtaking view of the roundabout. Milano in winter radiates a unique, dark warmth that encourages leisurely enjoyment of its streets and bars, as waves of beauty pass by, aligning with Marrone’s vision.
* * *
Emma Marrone © Bogdan “Chilldays” Plakov
In the Historic Piazza of Firenze
In the Piazza della Signoria in Firenze, I was surrounded by some of the most significant sculptures in Western art, and amidst these stunning works stood a powerful reminder of our own insignificance. I felt my sense of self dissolve among those statues, acutely aware of the transience of my existence.
As twilight fell, I shared a moment with my partner, sipping Prosecco in the golden winter night, while the sounds of Emma’s album liberated our spirits. We strolled from the piazza across the renowned Ponte de Vecchio and got lost in the enchanting nighttime streets of Firenze. Eventually, we returned to our hotel to enjoy the splendid view from our balcony while sipping Nero di Avola beneath the starry midnight sky. The combination of Italian wine flowing through me and Emma’s music made it feel as though I could live forever, elevating my consciousness to new realms. Listening to Emma and sipping wine sparked a transformation, allowing me to experience the world anew.
Emma Marrone © Bogdan “Chilldays” Plakov
On the Canals of Venezia
For the past four winters, we have immersed ourselves in the unique lagoon life of Venezia, discovering its endless dark corridors and witnessing the magnificent blood-red skies over the Adriatic Sea while riding the vaporetto.
Venezia's charm lies not only in its grandeur but also in discovering local hangouts that stray from typical tourist paths yet often remain unnoticed amid the bustle. One such gem is Tiziano Snack Bar, seemingly unassuming but blossoming into a home-like retreat once you connect with Pepe. This bar carries the rich histories of generations past, making it distinct within Venezia.
Another treasure is Enoteca al Volto, established in 1936 near the Rialto Bridge and hidden in Calle Cavalli. We would often find ourselves there in the late afternoon, enjoying a quarter liter of Prosecco and perhaps one or two of red wine, enveloped in the darkness of Calle, conversing with locals, marveling at the beauty of simply being alive in those moments.
One night last December, we sought refuge from the cold inside, enjoying red wine, while Emma's album painted a vivid backdrop against the intimate ambiance of the enoteca. Many nights were spent at Al Parlamento, a local bar tucked away in Cannaregio, alongside countless stops at various bars along Misericordia, as Emma Marrone's quest for meaning resonated with our own existential searches amid the fog. I found a fleeting sense of fulfillment on my private terrace overlooking the canal in Dorsoduro, with Emma’s album as the soundtrack
Odeal is back with a fresh single titled 'London Summers'. With the first week of June upon us, Clash is convinced that summer has officially begun in London.
After declaring her emotional struggles overcome, alt-pop artist Nastiya Kai is ready to embrace a brighter and "Never Better" creative phase this year with her newest EP, 'newnew.wav.'
South African sensation Tyla shines in her latest 'Bliss' video. The songwriter is leading a new wave in her country, blending amapiano,
AJ Tracey shares insights about his latest single '3rd Time Lucky'. The West London rapper is currently experiencing a surge in his career, releasing a series of singles that showcase his expertise in
The band has been brought in to take the place of Kings Of Leon, who had to withdraw because of an injury.
YOASOBI has released an English version of 'Watch Me!' - listen now. The Japanese group is a sensation in their native country, setting new records.
Emma Marrone’s ‘SOUVENIR’ invites deep reflection on an individual’s importance in the world, a matter that holds great significance in our difficult times, as she delves into existential themes related to mortality, identity, the quest for meaning, and authenticity.