Vacuum

Vacuum formed in Italy in the late 1990s around Massimo Mattioli and Maurizio Dami. Their sound pulled from psychedelic rock like Pink Floyd and Hawkwind, and the experimental electronics of German groups like Cluster and Neu!. They worked with vintage synthesizers and tape loops in the studio, building tracks that didn't fit neatly into existing categories.

Their self-titled debut in 1999 explored themes of astral travel and altered states, which drew a devoted following even as it divided some critics. The 2002 album 'Icaros' gave them wider recognition, with the title track becoming a staple in psychedelic trance circles. Other songs like 'Something Evil I Love' and 'Chant Like A Mantra' show their mix of hypnotic rhythms and ethereal vocals.

They kept releasing albums through the 2000s and 2010s, including 'The Void' in 2006 and 'Wanderers' in 2013. Their music has appeared in some films and video games, and they've worked with figures like Brian Eno and Richie Hawtin. The core duo of Mattioli and Dami has remained constant through various industry and financial challenges.