Overall Impression: Utterly catchy hooks, sterling performances, and sheer creative flair – this means it’s Hip Culture time of course! Now, life is filled with much uncertainty, and whilst the prospect of never knowing what might just be around the corner is a somewhat daunting one, there are at least a few things I can be sure about, one of those being that I just know I’m in for one heck of a good time when it comes to the music of Ignazio Natoli’s always exciting Hip Culture. This is a creative project that never ceases to raise a smile on my face and there seems to be no genre that Ignazio Natoli can’t tackle. “Valentino” sees Hip Culture blend pop, subtle elements of funk and dance, and alternative rock styles together to dazzling effect, presenting listeners with a rip-rollicking uptempo piece of songwriting that boasts soul-steeped vocal performances, virtuosic lead guitar work, body-moving rhythms, and a generally pleasant sense of character that will undoubtedly uplift many a spirit.
Strongest Point(s): Melody is an integral pillar in any Iggy Natoli tune and “Valentino” is certainly no exception. I love the way melodic phrases are given even more weight through the effective use of instrumental layering, the brass, bass, and guitar unisons that occur throughout for example are delightfully meaty and help to double down on the song’s sense of groove perfectly. Iggy always knows how to draw the best performance from the vocalists and there’s just a general sense of fun and a free-spirited nature to the way the vocals present themselves that gives the music a feeling of vigor and excitement that simply cannot be denied. The technique-drenched guitar solo is a wonderful addition and certainly adds some nice moments of spice to the arrangement, perfectly complimenting the song’s already highly melodic nature without feeling overpowering or out of place. “Valentino’s” fantastic arrangement, performances, and writing are obviously heightened further by the outstanding mix that is both well-balanced, finely detailed, and sonically energizing.
Target Audience Appeal:
I can certainly see “Valentino” appealing to both pop and alternative rock fans.
About The Reviewer: Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed “Guitar Nerd” Andre has been continually studying the guitar as well as teaching it, helping students learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and become proficient in home recording.