Luigi Madonna & Roberto Capuano – Mad World EP [Drumcode]

Luigi Madonna returns for his first Drumcode EP in five years, teaming up with fellow Neapolitan and label favourite Roberto Capuano.

We got our last taste of the creative synergy that marks Luigi Madonna and Roberto Capuano’s friendship when the pair dropped ‘Limitless’ in 2017, a brilliant addition to A-Sides Vol.6. Prior to that Luigi hadn’t dropped a cut on DC since 2015’s hook-driven ‘Magic Land’, while Capuano stands as one of the label’s most infallible contributors, last year’s ‘The Walker’ EP was typically impressive.

Crafted between two studios in a pre-COVID-19 world, the three-track conceptual EP opens with ‘Mad World’, as masterfully layered industrial hits and rides depict it’s narrative, while a pulsating melodic lead ensures heavy impact. ‘System Alert’ is inspired by the destructive effects of climate change and the track’s composition mirrors this malaise, as a pitch-bending synth elicits rhythmic chaos alongside Luigi and Roberto’s deft drum work. ‘Headquarter’ is steeped in drama and cinematic charm, backed by a distorted vocal sample, stormy oscillating synths and a sharp percussive backdrop.