The Twits

bar italia is a London-based three-piece consisting of Nina Cristante, Jezmi Tarik Fehmi, and Sam Fenton.

They are set to release their second full-length album of 2023, titled ‘The Twits’, on November 3rd. This follows their acclaimed Matador debut, ‘Tracey Denim’, which was released less than six months ago.

‘The Twits’ was recorded by the trio over eight weeks in February 2023 in a makeshift home studio in Mallorca, and it was mixed by Marta Salogni. The album showcases bar italia’s distinctive style of songcraft, which ranges from raucous and mystic to unkempt and occasionally sinister, all with a high level of commitment.

Notable tracks on the album include “my little tony,” with its high-energy riff and catchy hooks, the cathartic four-on-the-floor of ‘world’s greatest emoter,’ and the festival tent psychedelia of “Hi-fiver.” These are exhilarating rock songs with a touch of wildness and peculiarity.

The band also explores more experimental territory on ‘The Twits’, with songs like “Jelsy” presenting a conversation-like structure between friends set against wistful, buzzing country blues. The album's diversity is showcased in tracks like the sinuous, slow-burning waltz of “twist” and the open-ended tracks such as “Shoo,” which transition from reptilian dive-bar soloing to a palpitating two-note piano coda.

Throughout the album, Nina Cristante, Jezmi Tarik Fehmi, and Sam Fenton demonstrate their ability to manifest different melodies, moods, and cadences, often within the space of thirty seconds, rooted in a shared language and kinship.

Released in May, their Matador debut ‘Tracey Denim’ garnered significant attention and critical acclaim. The album's unique sound and style were praised by various publications, and their single “Nurse!” received airplay on BBC 6 Music and other radio stations. The band's live performances were also well-received, culminating in a sold-out headline show at the ICA in London, described by The Spectator as “transfixing.”