Lucilla Galeazzi comes from Umbria with a classic voice; controlled, refined and yet so full of spirit it absolutely explodes. She has performed in theater groups, semi-classical ensembles and folk music revivals, but it was her work with Philippe Eidel's Mammas project (with Equidad Bares, Yiota Vei and Hayet Ayad) that brought her recognition around Europe and America. Now her 1997 album Cuore di Terra has been reissued, and it is a most welcome one, indeed. It is a stripped down affair featuring a fine ensemble. Massimo Nardi's guitar anchors the sound with percussion from Nicola Raffone. The core trio is rounded out by Carlo Mariani on launeddas, a reed instrument with a drone much like a bagpipe. There is occasional flute, clarinet or bass for color.

"Era Una Notte Chiara"

This spare ensemble and remarkably simple songs are a showcase for her expressive voice, as it flows through crystalline lines or wavers elegantly on a sustain. The songs range from dramatic, sometimes almost bluesy ballads, to exuberant dance tunes. "Era Una Notte Chiara" captures both of these aspects in a dynamic number that moves from energetic to soulful and back, driven primarily by Mariani's launeddas. There is a modern edge to the music, full of contemporary references that never quite overwhelm the traditional sound of the music. No matter your geographical taste in music, this is a voice you should know better. - CF

See a review of her 2001 recording, Lunario

Lucilla Galleazzi's CDs are available at cdRoots