Feldspar might have just formed last year, but their roots can be traced back to the Italian hardcore scene of the '90s. Yes, guitarist Andrew Mecoli was a member of the groups Growing Concern and Equality.
"Stefano, Manlio, Luca, and Riccardo had played together in a band called Crude years ago and after meeting up for an informal jam in 2023 they decided to form Feldspar," Mecoli told No Echo via email. "It was a very natural process. Afterwards, Anna joined the band, and a few weeks later, Riccardo called me to join as second guitarist." The photo above represents the extended touring lineup of the band.
As for the Rome-based outfit's sound, Mecoli described Feldspar's approach as follows: "Our music is mainly inspired by old-school hardcore and post-hardcore bands, but also current bands such as Mindforce, GEL, and Militaire Gun that are doing exciting things and energizing the scene in a very cool way. Inspiration also comes from Scandinavian bands like Turbonegro and Kvelertak."
Feldspar is gearing up for the release of their debut album, Old City, New Ruins, which they recorded with English producer Nick Terry, known for his work with Primal Scream, Kvelertak, and The Libertines, among other artists.
Check out the music video for album single "18 Karat" below:
To ensure the cover art for Old City, New Ruins captured his lyrical concepts perfectly, Mecoli reached out across to a familar name from the States. "The album artwork is by Chris Wilson (Ekulu) who has designed album covers for Scowl, Combust, Mindforce, and many more great hardcore bands.
"Lyrically, we try to create a snapshot of our times with a focus on Rome and the contrast between the lives of its citizens and the power play and hypocrisy that has been taking place in the Vatican for centuries, that is also symbolic of the commercialization and loss of empathy of our civilization."
Mecoli is inspired by the current state of his local musical community. "The scene in Rome is very active and growing every day. It’s amazing to witness new generations in Rome carrying the hardcore torch for a scene that has its roots in the '80s and '90s.
"We must thank the Rotten Inc. and Til Death crews who work hard to organize shows and keep the scene alive. There are many cool bands in Rome at the moment. A shout out to Short Fuse, Choke Wire, Rainswept, Failed, Causeffect, and No More Lies."
Old City, New Ruins will be out on September 30th via Time to Kill Records (pre-order).
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