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Review: Jacopo Pausa- I Am What I Am


 Words by Anselm Anderson



Italian singer-songwriter and guitarist Jacopo Pausa has released his most experimental album. Hailing from Brescia, Italy, Pausa is a talented guitar player with a warm voice. Rambling Man has followed his progress since he broke onto the scene a few years ago. He skillfully mixes different styles of blues for a modern audience, and I was excited to hear about his new album, I Am What I Am, which was released a couple of weeks ago.

This ten-track album is the third release that this blog has reviewed, and it stands out from his previous efforts. Pausa has introduced a new lineup, alongside a fresh approach and attitude. I would say this is his most personal work, featuring several biographical tracks along with strong storytelling elements. He has stripped down the laid back blues for a blend of Jazz, Reggae, Ska, Rap, Rock, Funk and, of course, blues. The riffs are still sharp and the melodies infectious, but he has brought a sense of wholesomeness and energy to the tracks, which may have been missing on previous efforts.

The inclusion of some funky elements on tracks like 'Digital Detox' and the ska track 'No Regrets' adds a mature edge to the music. Pausa sounds like he has done some soul searching, whilst  with tracks like 'Fri-ends' about ending friendships and 'Never Never Land', which are enjoyable songs. There is a sense of fun and exploration, as Pausa experiments with different sounds and genres, which suggests he has discovered his own purpose in music.

There are some tracks, which sound out of place, such as the Rap-infused opener 'Rap and Blues', but that doesn't affect this release. There are some other surprising ventures like swinging blues on 'Sam Parchock', about a party-loving man, who doesn't need an excuse to stay out late. This song features the song title in Brixen Dialect, which is one of the oldest towns in Italy. ''4Means2' is another track, which features Italian Rapper Dellino Farmer singing in Brixen Dialect. Of course, the album wouldn't be complete without some blues like on the title track 'I Am What I Am' and the tribute 'Fly High'. Dedicated to Pausa's late boss.


Overall, Jacopo Pausa has matured over the years to release his most compelling and comforting album to date. It is filled with sympathetic tracks, thought-provoking lyrics, and enjoyable tunes. This album offers an eclectic mix of rock music that listeners will truly appreciate.

If you enjoyed this album, please click below to read further reviews of Jacopo Pausa






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