Album Review: Ascoltami by Rig(h)el – A Hidden Italodance Gem
Released in 2007 under Bit Records, Ascoltami by Rig(h)el is a vibrant slice of Italian electronic pop that deserves more attention than it gets. With its Italodance roots and sleek production, this album feels like a late-night drive along the Amalfi Coast—equal parts euphoric and introspective. It’s not perfect, but it’s got character, and sometimes that’s all you need.
The standout track here is obviously the titular "Ascoltami (Original)." Right off the bat, Mauro Celli’s vocals grab you—they’re smooth yet slightly raw, like he’s whispering secrets only you can hear. The beat builds steadily, layering synths with precision thanks to Gianluca Guzzetta’s programming wizardry. There’s something addictive about how the melody swells; it pulls you in without ever feeling overdone. You don’t just listen to this song—you feel it. And yeah, maybe the lyrics are a bit cheesy at times, but isn’t that part of the charm? This is Italodance, after all—not Shakespeare.
Another track worth mentioning is "Ascoltami (The Produxer Rmx)." If the original is your romantic dinner date, then this remix is the wild afterparty. The Produxer cranks up the energy, turning what was already catchy into an absolute banger. The bassline hits harder, the tempo races forward, and suddenly you’re dancing in your kitchen at 2 AM wondering where the night went. What makes this version memorable is how it keeps the soul of the original intact while giving it a modern twist. It’s familiar enough to comfort you but fresh enough to surprise.
Behind the scenes, the credits tell their own story. Guzzetta, Lodigiani, and Celli clearly had chemistry, wearing multiple hats as arrangers, mixers, and programmers. Their teamwork shines through every detail, from the crisp guitar riffs to the seamless transitions between tracks. Kudos also go to Mauro Vai, the executive producer, for keeping things cohesive. Without him, this project might’ve felt scattered instead of sharp.
What sticks with me most about Ascoltami is how unapologetically Italian it feels. It doesn’t try to mimic global trends or chase mainstream success—it just does its thing, confident in its identity. Listening to it now, years later, feels like stumbling across an old photograph. It’s nostalgic but still relevant, proof that good music doesn’t have an expiration date.
And honestly? I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. In a world obsessed with TikTok hits and algorithm-friendly playlists, albums like this remind us why we fell in love with music in the first place. So if you’re looking for something different—something real—give Ascoltami a spin. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find yourself humming it days later, unable to shake its infectious vibe.
