Angelo De Augustine's medical nightmare and subsequent recovery have resulted in a profound transformation, both personally and professionally. De Augustine's near-death experience, marked by a mysterious illness and a relentless drive to finish his album, has led to a new album, Angel in Plainclothes, that reflects on life's transience with a unique blend of wistful beauty and ethereal sounds. This article delves into De Augustine's journey, exploring the impact of his illness on his music, his recovery process, and the personal insights gained from his experience.
A Near-Death Experience and a Musical Journey
De Augustine's story begins with a sudden collapse on Halloween 2022, which left him semi-incapacitated and unable to hear, see, or move. Despite extensive medical tests, doctors couldn't diagnose him, and he was sent home with a grim warning. This experience, coupled with his determination to finish his album, led to a period of immense struggle and self-reflection. De Augustine's near-death experience became the catalyst for his new album, which explores themes of mortality and the beauty of life's fleeting moments.
The Album's Musical Style and Themes
Angel in Plainclothes showcases De Augustine's unique musical style, blending elements of folk, pop, and experimental sounds. The album's title, Angel in Plainclothes, symbolizes De Augustine's journey of self-discovery and his newfound appreciation for life. The songs on the album are filled with wistful reflections, drawing comparisons to the work of Nick Drake and early Paul Simon. The lead single, Mirror Mirror, serves as a metaphor for De Augustine's feelings of isolation and his struggle to find his place in the world.
The Role of the Central Nervous System
De Augustine's illness, as he now understands it, was linked to chronic fear and stress, which overwhelmed his central nervous system's ability to self-regulate. This led to a range of strange symptoms, including the inability to hear, see, or move. His experience highlights the interconnectedness of the body and mind, and the potential impact of chronic stress on overall health. De Augustine's journey also underscores the importance of addressing stress and finding healthy coping mechanisms.
A Musical Family and a Soccer Player's Dream
De Augustine's musical journey is deeply rooted in his family's musical background. His mother, Wendy Fraser, is a professional vocalist, and his father, a drummer, played a significant role in his early musical development. Despite his musical upbringing, De Augustine initially dreamed of becoming a professional soccer player. However, injuries ended his playing days, leading him to pursue music as a means of self-expression. His unique approach to songwriting, without formal training or learning other people's songs, has contributed to his distinct musical style.
Recovery and the Power of Music
De Augustine's recovery process was a challenging journey, marked by periods of improvement and decline. He returned home to live with his mother, where he struggled with basic tasks like cooking. One of the key breakthroughs in his recovery was discovering the therapeutic benefits of water, which helped alleviate his symptoms. Additionally, a daily program of physical and mental exercises played a crucial role in retraining his brain and restoring his ability to play guitar and sing.
Collaborating with Friends and Experimenting with Sounds
During the recording process of Angel in Plainclothes, De Augustine collaborated with a diverse group of musicians, including Kevin Morby, Oliver Hill, Leng Bian, Thomas Bartlett (Doveman), and his mother. This collaboration brought a unique blend of sounds to the album, with antique instrumentation like a bowed psaltery, aquarion, and a Marxophone. De Augustine's interest in finding new sounds is evident, as he has also experimented with a civil war-era pump organ, which he describes with enthusiasm.
Rebuilding a Career and Embracing Life
De Augustine's recovery has been a gradual process, and he is still not fully healed. He has taken small steps towards rebuilding his career, including his first live performance in five years. This journey has taught him to appreciate life's little moments and to embrace a more relaxed approach to his music. De Augustine's new album, Angel in Plainclothes, is a testament to his resilience and his ability to find beauty in the midst of struggle. As he continues to heal and rediscover himself, De Augustine's music will undoubtedly continue to evolve and inspire.
In conclusion, Angelo De Augustine's medical nightmare and subsequent recovery have shaped his music and personal outlook in profound ways. His album, Angel in Plainclothes, is a powerful reflection of his journey, offering a unique blend of wistful beauty and ethereal sounds. De Augustine's story serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of art in the face of adversity.
