The project, based in Rome, with two central members, Despite the Wane returns with All in Vain. The track is cinematic and slightly eerie from the beginning. It attracts you right away. This isn't a band that's chasing fads. They've created their own sound, and that confidence is present and audible.
The partnership at the heart of the project is formed between the vocalist and synth player who started it, and a guitarist with meticulous precision and excellent melodic abilities. They write, arrange, and produce as a team. No external parties are involved in the process.
They are definitely influenced by British New Wave music. It also has a gothic and progressive element to it. Important moments appear in the guitar lines, with the guitar used carefully within the space. The synths sit beneath and create mood, but are not used only as decoration.
The vocals are solid and emotional. There is a lot of texture in the delivery, and it brings the listener in closer, not further away from the song. The voice is searching, appropriate for a song that is more about questions than answers or messages.
The lyrics are about general concepts such as loss, change, and suffering while striving to move forward. All in Vain continues in this direction. It's not a story of looking back fondly on the past. It addresses the here and now with honesty, even if it is hard or uncomfortable.
The best thing about Despite the Wane is that they don't take the easy route to comfort. The setup remains low-key and moody, allowing for a gradual build-up of tension rather than a rushed finish. It's cinematic and is a good fit for a quiet moment, particularly late at night when thoughts are heavier.
All in Vain is a confident and emotional addition to their work. It shows the band's ongoing efforts to build a distinct identity. They remain true to their vision, not changing it to appeal to a larger audience and not going for the obvious.
