This one came out of the blue so to speak, and I'm glad it did. Augustine is the performing name of Italian singer-songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Sara Baggini, who also appears on the highly stylized cover photo of the album. 'Proserpine' is her third release after 'One Thin Line' (2010) and 'Grief and Desire' (2018). Although she does most of the heavy lifting (vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards and synths, drum machine, percussion) herself, she is assisted by Fabio Ripannuci (guitars, keyboards, drum machine, percussion); Daniele Rotella (bass, percussion); Massimo Margaritelli (bass); Niccolo Franchi (drums); and Francesco Federici (toms) on some tracks. Even with all that, 'Proserpine' is kind of minimal instrumentally, definitely uncluttered but exquisitely arranged. The artist and label calls it Dark Folk, but I think that genre tag falls a bit short. Still, it's kind of Gothy and Dark Wavy, and a little dream poppy too.

Proserpine, or Proserpina was the Roman goddess of the Underworld, and the concept of this album revolves around her. As Augustine put is - "It was born from an idea of inexorability, of reclusion, of self exile; of a life lived watching the world from behind a window." The songs reflect an introspective journey, a symbolic fall into Hades, a psychological death with its little rebirths. Also, 'Proserpine' is autobiographical, with many deeply personal aspects of Augustine's life explored in every song- hopes, fears, desires, etc. Fortunately all the song lyrics (sung in English) are printed on the six-panel CD slipcase for easy reference. Every song is crafted with care, and Augustine's soprano voice is divinely avian (somewhat reminiscent of Kate Bush), swooping and gliding over 13 delightful tracks covering a variety of moods and subjects from financially worry ("Response of the Oracle") to "Moments of Pleasure and Joy" to Cutting ("How To Cut Your Veins Correctly") to being badly hurt emotionally ("Deep, So Deep") and much more. While it sounds like nothing was done with the intention of being a pop hit, "Adonis" comes really close to being "it" with a very memorable hook. In a world where real talent was respected and rewarded, this song would be given massive radio play. I think if you heard it, you'd agree.

'Proserpine' is a worthy album you should definitely seek out. It seems as though we don't get enough music of this caliber these days. I only wish that the label or artist had provided Augustine's email address so I could tell her personally, but it seems like most artists these days prefer Bandcamp or Facebook messaging, which I'm really not into.