An anticipated arrival weaves sensuously soulful pop threads into the sleekest of sonic fabrics.
After being approached by friend and confidant Jai Paul in 2014, London multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter and producer Fabiana Palladino first released her own solo material in 2017, before signing to Paul Institute/XL Recordings in 2020. In the years that followed, Palladino would carve out an identity all of her very own. The result is a deeply introspective narrative carried across 10 songs on her self-titled debut album, an exploration of aloneness through human connection and raw emotional analysis.
“People are getting married and having kids around you, and I was not in that at all. There’s a certain amount of pain in having to accept that that’s not the way it’s gone. But also: how can I embrace that and create power for myself? I feel amazing about it now, and so happy that my life has gone in that way.”
Fabiana Palladino
Coated unsparingly in lush, emotive instrumentals that are gloriously reminiscent of the big R&B, soul, pop and disco studio productions of the 80s and 90s, albeit with a contemporary focus, this is a special album. Intricately self-produced, it's clear Palladino has paid particular attention to constructing sound beds that generously evoke the feelings visited in her lyrics. The fusion of influences both old and new meld to create an almost exemplar classic pop record.
That Fabiana Palladino's debut is so highly anticipated is testament to the work she has put in behind the scenes, slowly but meticulously attending to the craft of her own sound all the while racking up the kind of session credentials attached only to the most alluring future stars. Her record is a powerful statement and a catalyst for the fervent adoration yet to come.
Fabiana Palladino - Fabiana Palladino
Rough Trade Exclusive cream vinyl shared with the artist.
We're excited to announce Fabiana Palladino as part of Rough Trade On The Rise, our dedicated curation putting a spotlight on the emerging music we are the most excited for you to hear, to follow and become a fan of. Read on to discover more about the artists in her own words and check out her self-titled debut album on Paul Institute/XL Recordings.
Fabiana Palladino on Fabiana Palladino
A self-penned bio
Five by Five
5 Qs, 5 As
Describe Fabiana Palladino in 5 words.
Listen to this and cry.
5 records you listened to prior to making your album?
Love Wars - Womack and Womack
Heart Break - New Edition
Spirits Having Flown - The Bee Gees
Control - Janet Jackson
Temporary Highs in the Violet Skies - Snoh Aalegra
Top 5 career moments since forming?
Releasing my song Mystery on Paul Institute.
Signing to XL Recordings.
Working with Steve Ferrone, Pino Palladino and Shawn Everett on Stay With Me Through the Night.
Playing in the band for Jai Paul’s first ever show at Coachella.
Actually managing to finish an album.
You host a pre-release listening party for the album. Who are your 5 VIP guests (dead or alive)?
Cilla Black
Andre 3000
Claudia Winkleman
George Michael
My mum
Top 5 essential tour snacks?
Cadbury’s Dairy Milk Giant Buttons
Houmous and pitta
Ginger shots
M&S cheese and onion sandwich
Good tequila