For Andrea Milan, the mind behind the Italian experimental project Fugit, the journey began with a desire for autonomy. Founded in 2014, Fugit was born out of Andrea’s frustration with traditional band dynamics and his yearning to craft music entirely on his terms.
“I formed Fugit because I needed a space that was only mine,” Andrea explains. “I had many different bands before, but never really got anywhere. I also had difficulties finding other musicians willing to play the genres I had in mind. I hate wasting time, so I figured I’d just do it myself and call it Fugit—derived from Tempus Fugit, or ‘time flies.’ It’s been great. I love the freedom that comes with it. I don’t know if I want to go back and play in a band again; too much drama.“
The theme of impermanence is central to Fugit, not only in its name but also in its music and lyrics. Andrea delves into the philosophical underpinnings of his work: “The human condition is a big aspect of the lyrical themes of Fugit. I’ve always felt a sense of not belonging anywhere. I’m deeply interested in what could be hiding beyond our everyday reality. We are insignificant compared to the vastness of time and space, and this has an impact on our fragile human consciousness. Being the ‘smartest’ in the animal kingdom has its downsides, I guess.“
Fugit‘s latest album, Astral Consciousness, is a sprawling exploration of black metal, doom, and blackgaze. Yet, despite the complex arrangements and genre-blending, Andrea insists his creative process remains refreshingly straightforward. “I usually compose with a classical guitar or piano and then build up on that with other instruments. It’s as simple as that. I don’t follow any particular rules for composition, though I have noticed I’m more creative at night for some reason.“
The album is a fusion of heavy, dark atmospheres and ethereal, psychedelic elements. When asked how he achieved this balance, Andrea attributes it to instinct and emotional resonance. “It all came naturally. I try to do what’s best for the song and to understand what the song is trying to tell me. It depends heavily on how I feel at the moment and what’s happening around me and in my life. But I have no preconceptions and set no rules in my music. Complete freedom.“
This creative freedom extended to collaborations on the album, including with Alia Fay and Martina Questa. Their contributions brought distinctive textures to tracks like “The Sunset Ritual” and “Metempsicosi.” Andrea recounts the process with enthusiasm: “I had a specific type of vocals in mind for both songs. ‘The Sunset Ritual’ was calling for an ethnic, pagan voice from Mother Earth, and ‘Metempsicosi’ for a more classically trained, melancholic opera voice. I went online and started searching. I was lucky to find two talented artists who fit my vision perfectly. Their work made both songs ten times better, and I couldn’t be happier with how they turned out.“
The concept of consciousness lies at the heart of Astral Consciousness, with Andrea aiming to take listeners on a journey of introspection and self-discovery. “We are all in a state of becoming, and awareness plays a crucial role in this transformation. Astral Consciousness serves as a metaphor or method for facilitating this journey. It embodies the idea of transcending ordinary states of awareness, exploring the dreamlike states where imagination meets consciousness. By tapping into this alternative perspective, listeners might embark on a personal voyage, freeing their minds beyond the constraints of daily existence.“
Andrea’s sound has drawn comparisons to Alcest, My Dying Bride, and Blut Aus Nord, but his influences extend far beyond metal. “Their music influenced me as a person, but I tend to listen to a lot of non-metal music. I also draw inspiration from books, movies, paintings, and walks in the forest. It’s difficult to pinpoint the source of my inspiration. I don’t know if Fugit has a unique identity—that’s for others to decide. I don’t really care, as long as I’m making music.“
Creating music independently comes with its challenges, but Andrea embraces the solitude. “I love the freedom it brings. I can make what I want, when I want. But it’s also financially expensive and time-consuming. Balancing music with personal life and a day job is challenging—I’ve lost all my friends. Access to quality equipment, professional spaces, and expert advice is limited, which affects the final product, especially on a tight budget. Still, it’s worth it in the end. When people listen to my songs, they know it’s 100% me, without any middlemen or marketing schemes.“
The feeling of being “out of place” resonates deeply in Andrea’s music, a theme that has struck a chord with listeners. “Some people have written to me saying my songs helped them during dark times. That’s the best compliment an artist can get. I hope my music serves as a safe space for reflection and connection, allowing listeners to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery. You’re never alone when you have a whole world within yourself.“
Released on September 6, 2024, Astral Consciousness has garnered positive feedback from fans and critics alike, though Andrea remains unfazed by external validation. “So far, the feedback has been mostly positive, which is great. But I must be honest: I don’t follow critics that much. If I’m happy with the result, I don’t really care if others don’t like it.“
Looking ahead, Andrea is already working on a new album slated for 2025. “I still have no idea what kind it will be or if there will be collaborations. I’ll see what the songs have to say. As for live performances, I don’t think they’ll ever be part of Fugit’s future. My strengths are always focused on composing new music.“
Despite the transient nature of his roots, Andrea’s birthplace in Veneto continues to influence his artistry. “I think I’ve moved 8 or 9 times in the last 10 years, both in and outside Italy. Veneto is my birthplace, and I’ll always feel connected because of childhood memories. But in the end, I’m always out of place, and that feeling feeds my music.“
For Milan, extreme music isn’t confined to exploring darkness; it’s a vessel for expressing a broad spectrum of emotions. “Extreme music can serve as a mirror to society and a canvas for self-exploration. It’s not just about dark feelings. Freedom, love for nature, and personal growth are just as important. Extreme music is perfect for capturing the full range of human emotion.“
Astral Consciousness is available from Bandcamp here. Follow Fugit on Instagram and YouTube, and like them on Facebook.
