Album Review: The New History by Dhamm 011 – A Raw Italian Rock Gem
Alright, let’s talk about The New History by Dhamm 011. This 2015 rock album from Italy is one of those hidden gems that doesn’t scream for attention but still manages to grab you by the ears. Released under "Not On Label," it’s got this raw, DIY vibe that feels super authentic. If polished, overproduced stuff isn’t your thing, this might just hit the spot.
First off, props to the crew behind this project. You’ve got Andrea Lybra doing double duty as vocalist and executive producer, Manuel Brancalion laying down some serious basslines, Leonardo Ballarin smashing the drums, and guitar wizards Alessandro Lexh and Nikk Reds bringing all kinds of crunchy riffs. It’s a tight-knit group that clearly loves what they do.
Now onto the tracks—there are seven in total, each with its own flavor. But two songs stood out to me like neon signs in a foggy street: “Morire Per Vivere” and “Assedio.”
“Morire Per Vivere” kicks things off on a high note. I mean, wow. The opening riff hits you right away—it’s heavy without being overwhelming, kinda like when someone tells you bad news but then gives you a hug immediately after. Lybra’s vocals have this gritty edge that fits perfectly with the theme of living through struggles. And damn, does the chorus stick in your head! Even hours later, I found myself humming it while making coffee. That mix of emotion and energy? Yeah, that’s why this track stuck with me.
Then there's “Assedio,” which feels like a punch to the gut—in a good way. The drumming here is insane; Ballarin really goes hard, giving the song this relentless drive. It’s like running full speed downhill—you can’t stop even if you wanted to. The lyrics feel urgent too, like a call to action or rebellion. Honestly, it made me wanna grab a mic and shout along, even though my Italian isn’t great (thanks, Google Translate). By the end of the song, I was breathless—not sure if it was the music or my terrible attempt at singing along!
What makes The New History stand out is how real it feels. There’s no fluff or pretentiousness here. Just straight-up rock ‘n’ roll with heart. Sure, the production could be cleaner, but honestly? That rough-around-the-edges sound adds charm. Like wearing your favorite hoodie instead of a tailored suit—it’s comfy and familiar.
One random thought before wrapping up: listening to this album felt like finding an old Polaroid photo tucked inside a book. It’s personal, unpolished, and kinda nostalgic—even though I hadn’t heard these songs before. Weird, huh?
So yeah, check out The New History if you’re into Italian rock or just want something different. Oh, and bonus points for supporting indie bands who aren’t backed by big labels. These guys poured their souls into this record, and it shows.
