Damiano David - Silverlines
In launching his solo endeavor, Sony Music enlisted the talents of Labrinth. Did this collaboration pay off?
Silverlines presents a sound that can be described as both depressive and grandiose, yet ultimately ascetic. This duality encapsulates the essence of Labrinth's work, characterized by a blend of emotional depth and minimalist instrumentation. While his signature style is unmistakable throughout the track, it feels more like a product of Labrinth than a showcase of Damiano's individual artistry.
As one of the most charismatic vocalists of the last five years, Damiano’s voice has always been a compelling force behind Måneskin's success. It's what initially drew me to their music, particularly after their groundbreaking win at Eurovision and their efforts to break into the American market with Sony's support. However, in Silverlines, I find it painful to admit that Damiano's unique vocal qualities are almost indistinguishable. Anyone could have sung this track, and I doubt I would have recognized his distinctive voice without prior knowledge. This is a stark contrast to my previous experiences, where his style was always identifiable.
While I appreciate the ambition behind the sound, it's clear that the execution falls short of expectations. In Måneskin's last album, Rush, the track The Loneliest serves as a prime example of how to blend tragedy, grandeur, and rock ballad delivery seamlessly. In comparison, Silverlines feels disjointed, as if not all the song's elements were carefully thought out and cohesively integrated. This results in a final product that lacks the unifying beauty one might expect from a collaboration of such caliber.
In conclusion, while Silverlines showcases an intriguing direction for Damiano David as a solo artist, it ultimately feels like a missed opportunity. The track lacks the emotional resonance and vocal distinction that fans have come to love from him. Hopefully, future releases will allow him to reclaim his unique identity and showcase his immense talent more effectively.
6.0/10