Karmamoi - Eternal Mistake

Karmamoi – Eternal Mistake

Independent/Bandcamp

My Italian friends in Karmamoi have released Eternal Mistake, their seventh studio album—and it’s a compelling concept album. As the band describes it, it tells the story of a human and a humanoid: two souls reaching across the boundaries of logic and flesh, searching for something real in a world built on code and imperfection.
After years of shifting vocalists, Karmamoi has settled into a stable lineup with singer Valerio Sgargi and bandleader/drummer Daniele Giovannoni as the core creative team. Together, they produced the album and wrote and arranged all the tracks.
So, how is the album? In short: fantastic!
It's a bit of a departure from their previous work, featuring more electronics and keys—which makes sense with Sgargi doubling on keyboards. As always, bassist Alessandro Cefalì lays down a wonderful foundation for the rest of the band to shine on. Giovannoni remains one of my absolute favorite drummers: never over the top, but always a musical powerhouse. Guitarist Alex Massari is brilliant throughout; while the band brought in Randy McStine for a guest solo on "Nothing But", Alex could just as easily have nailed it himself. Meanwhile, Valerio Sgargi puts his classical training to brilliant use— effortlessy shifting from crooning and theatrical musical style to full-on rock.
The songwriting on Eternal Mistake is exceptionally strong. With Sgargi as his writing partner, Daniele Giovannoni has elevated what Karmamoi has always excelled at: cinematic progressive rock of the highest order.
To name a few songs: ‘Not on Your Side, with beautiful guitar work from Alex Massari, ‘We Are Going Home’ with Valerio in full crooner mode complemented by beautiful guest vocals from Susanna Brigatti and ‘Hero’ which features stunning piano and Moog synth work from guest Adam Holzman.
This is a truly fabulous album!