Spittle Italy Schallplatten & CDs

Review: This double LP release of Marcello Michelotti's Italian New Wave live performances of the groups 1980 double single 'Information of Death' and 2008 album 'Oscillator' come 3 years after their last EP. Whilst 'Information of Death' utilises analogue synths and live drum recordings to create its metallic, cold soundscape, 'Oscillator' - a live performance from the 1979 Banana Moon Club - is almost entirely those alien synths, with interspersed vocal passages. These two legendary New Wave projects are bundled together for the first time, the first vinyl press of 'Oscillator' and the first press of 'Information of Death' in 7 years. The abrasive, experimental production on tracks like 'Neon 0832' and 'Neon 1102' are revolutionary to a modern ear. To say Michelotti et al were ahead of their time is an understatement.

Review: Italia Synthetica 1981-1985 is a reissue of a 2013 compilation which details a selection of synthpop, new wave and minimal electronic bands and artists from Italy in the early 80s. Spittle Records did divine work in sourcing and collating this collection ten years ago, not least since it's what they do best. Conceived and presented by veteran Italian singer and producer and beloved member of the scene himself - Fred Ventura - highlights like Neon's 'Lobotomy' and Actor's Studio's 'Dancing Alone' do well to represent the punkish and slapdash attitude of this flourishing yet short-lived scene. It nevertheless paved the way for the rich musical landscape Italy's underground enjoys to this day.