Damiano David – Funny Little Fears
Marking a clear break from the swagger of his Måneskin days (not necessarily a bad thing in itself), Damiano David’s solo debut, Funny Little Fears, finds him exploring pop’s more polished and reflective corners. Known for his sweaty, leather-clad charisma as the frontman of the widely adored rock sensation, here he steps into vulnerable, diaristic territory (and occasionally treads familiar ground). If it’s in the more introspective moments that David truly shines, peeling back layers, it’s his distinctive vocal phrasing, however, that can turn even the more conventional pop elements into deeply personal statements.
Voices is the perfect track to open with. Bold, catchy and energetic, it delves into internal struggles and sets a contemplative tone for the record. “All these voices are going to find me wherever I go,” he sings. This theme of looking inwards continues with Silverlines, produced by Labrinth, which, while showcasing David’s vocal prowess, lacks some of the raw energy and potent pull that defined his previous work. First Time is both tender and electrifying. A potential hit, its infectious chorus invites repeated listens.
Sick of Myself and Tangerine stand out as two highlights: the former offers a glimpse into a darker side of his storytelling, while the latter provides a lighter, romantic and more effervescent feel. Tangerine is the type of song to slow dance to in a dimly lit room. One thing Funny Little Fears does particularly well, in fact, is strike a fine balance between melancholy and euphoria.
The album is not without its challenges, with some tracks falling into repetition and relying too heavily on familiar pop tropes. This might alienate fans still yearning for the carefree attitude and snarling guitars that defined David’s earlier rock days. Yet, it’s his willingness to experiment and break away from past expectations that makes Funny Little Fears an intriguing chapter in his evolving career – a career that will no doubt continue to surprise. And who knows where it will take him. Singing in Italian again, one can hope.
Ultimately, this debut solo effort signals a promising new direction. David should be applauded, if anything, for his enthusiasm to embrace the complexities of self-discovery. It may not win over every fan, but it firmly establishes him as an artist unafraid to push his creative boundaries.
Benedetta Mancusi
Image: Damon Baker
Funny Little Fears is released on 16th May 2025. For further information or to order the album, visit Damiano David’s website here.
Watch the video for the single Silverlines here:
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