Apprendre à jouer l'album : Chosen

Chosen: The Energetic First EP from Måneskin

The Italian alternative rock group Måneskin conquered the world with their victory at Eurovision in 2021, but their career began long before this international recognition. Chosen, their debut EP, released in 2017, demonstrates the energetic blend of pop rock and funk rock that characterized their sound at this point in their career. In this dive into Chosen, we will explore its genesis, its content and its impact on the trajectory of the group.

Genesis of the EP “Chosen”

Chosen marked Måneskin's recording debut. The group was already in full creative bloom and had begun to make a name for itself on the Italian music scene. Formed in 2016, the group consists of Damiano David on vocals, Victoria De Angelis on bass guitar, Thomas Raggi on guitar and Ethan Torchio on drums.

Before Chosen, Måneskin rose to prominence while participating in the eleventh season of X Factor Italia in 2017. The band quickly gained attention with their dynamic performances and unique fusion of rock, pop and funk. THE P Chosen was their first opportunity to present their own original music to the public.

The EP was released on December 8, 2017 and quickly climbed the Italian charts, reaching number three on the Italian Albums Chart. This breakthrough demonstrated that Måneskin had considerable commercial potential early in their career.

Content of the EP “Chosen”

Chosen features a total of seven tracks, including two original songs in English, as well as covers performed by the band during their appearance on X Factor Italia. Here is the track list from the EP:

1. “Chosen” – This song, which gives the EP its name, is an early example of Måneskin’s distinctive sound. It is characterized by infectious energy, punchy guitar riffs and the charismatic voice of Damiano David. The lyrics reflect a confident and determined attitude.
2. “Recovery” – The EP's second original song, “Recovery,” continues to explore the blend of rock and funk that would become Måneskin's trademark. The song features catchy musical arrangements and lyrics that express a desire for recovery and renewal.
3. “Vengo dalla Luna” (Caparezza Cover) – This cover of Caparezza's song shows Måneskin's ability to appropriate songs from other artists and reinterpret them in their own way. They bring their own energy and distinct style to this cover.
4. “Beggin'” (Four Seasons Cover) – “Beggin'” became one of the EP's most popular tracks, thanks in part to its irresistible energy and Måneskin's powerful delivery. This cover helped cement the band's reputation as masters of cover rock.
5. “Let's Get It Started” (Black Eyed Peas Cover) – Måneskin tackles a Black Eyed Peas classic with their own rock twist. The cover shows their ability to transform pop songs into true rock anthems.
6. “Somebody Told Me” (The Killers Cover) – This cover by The Killers reveals the influence of alternative rock bands on Måneskin's sound. They capture the essence of the song while adding their own distinctive energy.
7. “You Need Me, I Don't Need You” (Ed Sheeran Cover) – The last track on the EP is an Ed Sheeran cover. Måneskin brings a new dynamic to the song while remaining faithful to the original.

Impact of “Chosen” on Måneskin’s Career

Chosen marked the start of a promising career for Måneskin. The EP quickly climbed the Italian charts, signaling that the band had the potential to capture a wider audience. The popularity of Chosen laid the foundations for the group's subsequent international success, including their Eurovision victory in 2021.

The EP was also certified platinum in Italy, testifying to its impact on the national music market. Even more impressive, several songs from the EP received platinum and gold certifications from the Federation of the Italian Music Industry (FIMI). This reflects both the quality of the music and the positive reception from the audience.

Legacy of “Chosen”

Although Måneskin has since evolved into a more mature and elaborate sound, Chosen remains an important testimony to their beginnings. Fans of the band still enjoy the songs from this EP and the passionate performances that accompany them.

Outside of Italy, Måneskin's rock cover of the Four Seasons' “Beggin'” became one of the EP's most popular songs. This takeover helped introduce the group to a global audience, anticipating their future international success.