Recorded in the renowned MiddleFarm Studios in Devon, the album “Fall and What Comes After” delves into themes of longing, depression, nostalgia, and the shadow of suicidal thoughts, all threaded together with a glimmer of hope. It reflects the artist’s journey through intense personal struggles, exploring the loss of past familiar relationships, the emotional weight of change, and the battle with one’s own inner darkness.
Marco Ragozza is an Italian singer-songwriter based in London. After moving from the north of Italy in 2019, where he studied music for seven years, he enrolled in the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance (ICMP) to study songwriting. During his studies, Marco performed across London, both as a solo artist and with other bands (he toured with one of our recent interviewees, Leoni Jane Kennedy), experiencing the city’s vibrant music scene. As of October 2023, Marco has channeled his energy into his solo career, creating a debut album that captures his raw, authentic sound. The album is was released on February 21, 2025
It was loosely described to me as prog/alternative rock. Having read the press release, I was a little hesitant as the subject matter did sound very gloomy (as long as hope remains in the box we are okay!), but some of my favorite music stems lyrically from the worst of times (for example, The Justice League version of “Everybody Knows,” which I love for its bitter melancholy and cynicism), so with laptop and headphones to hand, I settled onto my sofa for a listen.
The album has eight songs and runs to just under 42 minutes.
“No Rebels Here” opens the album with piano and vocals; it’s a sad song for winter. Marco has a pleasing voice. As I had no idea at all what to expect, this is my first introduction to this music. It lyrically reflects on a bad relationship that, at the 3-minute mark, kicks into new gear for a few moments before delivering a chorus sound that I liked.
“Can We Still Be Friends?” Has a much funkier sound, a Cuban beat somewhere in there that made me want to move to the beat. I linked this one immediately and may have opened the album with it. Running at just over 3 minutes, it rips along apace and is a fine piece of commercial pop. This one should grab the attention of commercial radio; it would sound great as you were driving along or busy in the kitchen!
“Another Man” is dreamy and sultry. That gentle drum beat helps it along; it is a late-night track with some heavy touches around the 2 minute point. Great vocal delivery and some powerful guitar work here too.
“Potatoes and Roast Duck” gets an award for the unusual title! It is a ballad, a tale of home. There are also those little uplifting moments of ‘dancing to Sinatra around the couch’ and some layered vocal harmony that makes it pleasant listening.
“Forget Her,” I liked. It has a lovely emotive vocal performance and sadness in the lyrics. It is a sad song, but it connected and it was well crafted. “She’s somewhere out there now…” Good guitar work too.
“Fall” takes us to the cliff on the album cover. It is a contemplative lyric. The rhythm section works well in this song, almost a vocal lament.
“What Comes After” moves more toward folk music; it reminded me of some of the work Ervin Munir has been releasing lately. I see a lot of folk art tradition within Marco.
“Sad For No Reason” runs for over 8 minutes, so it turns and twists. The track returns to storytelling and is melancholic, contemplative and emotional. Again, Marco has a lovely, engaging vocal delivery and a confident, mature songwriting style.
Summary: This album is a thoughtful and emotive journey, weaving together melancholy, nostalgia, and introspection with strong songwriting and engaging vocals. Marco’s voice is warm and expressive, guiding the listener through a mix of dreamy ballads, folk influences, and even a touch of funk. While the overall tone leans toward the reflective and melancholic, moments of rhythmic energy and rich storytelling keep it dynamic. A well-crafted and mature collection that rewards attentive listening. A good album cover too.
Standout Tracks: “Can We Still Be Friends” and “Forget Her”
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You can stream music from Marco Ragozza here
By Stevie Ritson