Released 46 years ago this October
Patriots
Franco Battiato · 1980
29 min · 7 tracks · new wave
An eclectic fusion of new wave, opera, and progressive rock that challenges political ideologies through innovative soundscapes.
Top tracks — play these first
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Up Patriots to Arms Start here — The opening track sets the tone with its urgent call to action, blending martial rhythms with introspective lyrics that question patriotism.
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Venezia‐Istanbul — This track showcases Battiato's ability to weave complex narratives through music, illustrating cultural intersections with an exotic arrangement that captivates listeners.
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Prospettiva Nevski — With its haunting melodies and reflective lyrics, this song encapsulates the album’s exploration of identity and the impact of historical memory.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album's eclectic sound and thematic depth create a distinctive listening experience that rewards exploration.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a strong, anthemic track that combines orchestral elements with electronic sounds, setting a dramatic tone.
- Each track features varied instrumentation, including synthesizers, strings, and traditional instruments, creating a rich sonic palette.
- Several tracks incorporate operatic vocal styles, blending them seamlessly with new wave rhythms.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo explorations
- politically charged narratives
- rich soundscapes for focus
- short sessions with depth
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of instant gratification
- prefer long, sprawling albums
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album gained attention for its political themes, establishing Battiato's reputation.
- Themes
- Italian political unrest· Eastern-Western fusion· surreal imagery
- Career context
- By the time 'Patriots' was released in 1980, Franco Battiato had already established himself as a unique voice in Italian music with previous albums like 'Fetus' and 'Sulle Corde di Aries.' This album marked a pivotal moment as it embraced a more experimental approach, blending diverse genres and reflecting his growing interest in socio-political themes amidst Italy's cultural landscape.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Brian Eno· David Bowie· Roxy Music
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Up Patriots to Arms
The narrator shifts from a rallying cry to a somber reflection on the consequences of blind nationalism.
This juxtaposition highlights the duality of fervor and regret, offering a critical lens on the romanticization of patriotism.
Tracklist
- 1 Up Patriots to Arms Start here 5:05
- 2 Venezia‐Istanbul 4:36
- 3 Le aquile 4:10
- 4 Prospettiva Nevski 3:59
- 5 Arabian Song 3:40
- 6 Frammenti 3:56
- 7 Passaggi a livello 3:38
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Low
David Bowie
Shares experimental soundscapes and emotional depth, blending art rock with electronic influences.
Hounds of Love
Kate Bush
Combines lush production and surreal themes, reflecting personal and political narratives through a unique lens.
Remain in Light
Talking Heads
Explores complex rhythms and socio-political themes while merging new wave with world music influences.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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