B-Side Guys

Musical inheritance takes many forms. For Elia Lunardi, it meant growing up with instruments instead of toys, a childhood that blooms into full artistic expression on “Sound of Light,” released December 12, 2024. Recorded between Vienna’s Tic Vintage Room and Tuscany’s La Gallinella farm, these six tracks capture the sound of an artist discovering his voice while honoring his roots.

“Follow The Sea” opens the collection in two forms – first as an intimate statement, later reimagined with full band. Producer Filippo Gaetani helps craft an atmosphere where electronic and organic elements dance together naturally, setting the tone for what’s to come.

“So.But.Now” emerges as an early standout, benefiting from two-time Grammy winner Cameron Craig’s mixing expertise. Here, Lunardi’s recently discovered vocal gifts shine through, supported by Roberto “erreanderre” Randazzo’s textured guitar work and Florian “flohzirkus” Hager’s dynamic drumming.

“Born From Light” showcases the EP’s familial connections, with Steve Lunardi’s violin adding emotional depth to his son’s composition. The interplay between generations feels both natural and necessary, creating something that transcends mere collaboration.

“I See The Sun” continues this thread, with the elder Lunardi’s violin weaving through electronic textures created by Gaetani and Randazzo. The production maintains clarity while allowing for moments of beautiful blur, like sunlight through stained glass.

“Curious,” the EP’s third potential single, demonstrates Lunardi’s comfort with more electronic-leaning arrangements. Kilian Seibl’s programming and synthesizer work creates a perfect backdrop for Lunardi’s vocals, while Craig’s mix ensures every element finds its proper place.

The collection closes with that band version of “Follow The Sea,” transforming the opening track through full ensemble energy. This reimagining serves as both bookend and new beginning, suggesting multiple possible paths forward.

What sets “Sound of Light” apart is its organic evolution from personal expression to collaborative art. While many debuts try to establish a single sound, Lunardi embraces variety – from progressive rock touches to electronic experimentation to singer-songwriter intimacy. The production throughout supports this exploration, with Gaetani helping to craft arrangements that serve each song’s unique character.

Having found his singing voice only two years ago, Lunardi approaches vocal performance with refreshing reverence. His description of singing as “an almost divine experience” that connects him to the universe comes through in every track. There’s none of the jaded polish that can plague debuts; instead, we hear someone discovering their powers in real time.

The decision to record in both Vienna and Tuscany adds subtle depth to these songs. You can almost hear the different atmospheres – urban energy meeting rural peace, modern studio techniques enhanced by La Gallinella farm’s natural acoustics.

For fans of thoughtfully crafted indie pop that bridges electronic and organic sounds, “Sound of Light” is essential listening. It’s the rare debut that honors its influences while pushing forward, creating something both personal and universal.

As first statements go, this EP suggests exciting possibilities ahead. Whether Lunardi continues exploring electronic textures, dives deeper into progressive rock influences, or discovers entirely new territory, he’s demonstrated the artistic maturity to follow his muse wherever it leads.