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Italian singer-songwriter Charlie Risso talks about her new album Rituals, the influence of noir-folk and psychedelia, her 2026 tour through Germany and Austria, and the role of women in the music industry. In this exclusive interview, Charlie Risso opens up about creativity, live performances, and artistic identity.
Charlie Risso on the New Album Rituals
“Nature, silence and repetition inspired the album”
Charlie, your new album is titled Rituals. What personal or musical rituals most influenced the creative process behind this record?
Nature, silence, night walks, repetition. I think the album was born from a very introspective space. Also musically I was attracted by hypnotic patterns, almost trance-like moments, things that feel like a ritual themselves.
Charlie Risso on Comparisons to Lana Del Rey & PJ Harvey
“The most important thing is staying honest”
You are often compared to icons like Lana Del Rey or PJ Harvey. How does it feel to be mentioned alongside these legends, and how do you maintain your own unique musical identity?
It’s always flattering of course, because they are amazing artists with strong identities. But at the same time I try not to think too much about comparisons. I believe the most important thing is staying honest with your own emotional language and vision.
Noir-Folk, Psychedelia & Cinematic Soundscapes
“I love music that is beautiful and unsettling”
Your new songs feature a blend of noir-folk and psychedelia. What is it about the darker side of folk music that fascinates you so much?
I think darker folk music leaves space for mystery and emotional depth. It feels cinematic to me. I’ve always been fascinated by music that can be beautiful and unsettling at the same time.
The album was released on April 3rd. If you had to describe Rituals in just three words, which ones would you choose?
Hypnotic, nocturnal, healing.
From Genoa to London: Musical Influences Behind Rituals
Italian atmosphere meets London energy
You are originally from Genoa but lived in London for a while. How much did the raw energy of London shape the sound of your new album compared to your Italian roots?
London definitely influenced me a lot, especially in terms of attitude and openness. But my Italian roots are deeply connected to atmosphere and emotion. I think both worlds naturally coexist in my music. There’s also a strong American influence in my sound, probably coming from the music I grew up listening to and the kind of imagery and songwriting I’ve always been drawn to.
The Charlie Risso Rituals Tour is taking you through Germany and Austria. What do you especially appreciate about the audiences in these countries?
They really listen. I love that. There’s a deep respect for the live experience and people are very open to emotional and atmospheric music.
Intimate Clubs vs Festival Stages
“Feeling close to the audience is special”
In Vienna, you are performing at Haus der Musik, and in Berlin at Zimmer16. Do you prefer the intimate atmosphere of smaller clubs over large festival stages?
I honestly love both for different reasons, but intimate venues probably fit my music particularly well. There’s something very special about feeling physically close to the audience.
How important is the visual component of your live shows in conveying the cinematic mood of your music?
Very important. Even when the setup is minimal, I always think visually. Light, shadows, movement, the emotional atmosphere… they are all part of the experience.
Following the success of Alive, how has the feeling of being back on tour changed for you and your band?
I think we feel more connected and more confident now. Touring always teaches you something new, both musically and personally.
Is there a specific song on the Charlie Risso Rituals Tour setlist where you feel a particularly strong connection with the audience every time?
Probably “Rituals”. There’s something almost meditative about playing it live, and I feel the audience really enters that space with us.
Women in the Music Industry: Charlie Risso Speaks Out
Female Artists in the Indie Scene
“There’s still a long way to go”
You are often referred to as a “Noir-Folk Queen.” How do you perceive the current visibility and recognition of female singer-songwriters in the indie scene?
I think things are improving and there are many incredible female artists today, but there’s still a long way to go in terms of equal recognition and opportunities.
The music business is often seen as male-dominated. What hurdles have you had to overcome in your career as a female musician that your male colleagues might not have faced?
Sometimes women still have to work harder to be perceived as fully authoritative or technically competent, especially beyond the image side of things. But fortunately I also met many respectful and supportive people along the way.
You work with many great musicians. How important is it to you to create an environment within your team that promotes equality and diversity?
Very important. Music should be a safe and open space where everyone feels respected and creatively free.
What advice would you give to young women who are just starting to produce their own music and want to establish themselves in the industry?
Trust your instincts and don’t try to imitate what is expected from you. Your individuality is your strength.
What Needs to Change for Women in Music?
Equal access and visibility
If you had the power to change one thing for women in the global music business immediately—what would it be?
Probably equal access to opportunities and visibility at every level of the industry.
