Album Review: 505 – True at first light

Berlin-based duo 505, composed of Daniel Calvi and Mattia Prete, announces the release of its debut album, set to arrive on February 27, 2026. The self-produced album, the result of three years of work, is a definitive statement of 505’s innovative spirit, masterfully blurring the lines between acoustic soul and electronic precision.

The Sound: A Cinematic Journey – This album is more than a collection of tracks; it is a deeply immersive sonic journey designed for focused listening. The duo has crafted a “cinematic” soundscape that transports the listener through shifting landscapes. The music moves seamlessly from vast, dream like textures to gritty, grounded imaginaries reminiscent of classic Westerns and noir movies, all viewed through a sharp, futuristic lens. Whether used as a tool for deep concentration or as a vessel for mental exploration, the record offers a complex “travel” experience. It is the proof of 505’s ability to innovate, merging the organic warmth of live instrumentation with the cold, calculated beauty of modern electronics.

Check it Out:

The Project – 505 was born from the creative synergy between Daniel Calvi (guitar, synths) and Mattia Prete (rhythms and electronics). Conceived and developed within the Garden505 Studio in Berlin, the album is the testimonial of an artistic journey rooted in improvisation. Their sound will resonate with fans of iconic acts like Portishead, Massive Attack, and Portico Quartet, yet it carves out its own niche in the contemporary scene.

Collaborations & Production – The record features a curated selection of guest musicians who bring versatility and freshness to 505’s core sound. From ethereal sound design to punchy, suspenseful basslines, the release promises a dynamic experience, perfect for those who want to let their minds travel while their bodies respond to the groove, right from their living room.

Verdict: 505 hit the mark with a beautiful blend of electronica and Jazz, all in a mid tempo cool groove. ‘True at first light‘ takes you on a journey, guiding the way with tight programmed beats and live percussive sounds. Guest vocals add to the already accomplished arrangements giving even more depth to the music. Wonderful moments of restraint and translucent bursts of energy over the albums progression with Aki Himanens’ Haunting trumpet placed perfectly over the course of the album tips this release into a nine. Track it down.

Tracklisting:

1. / A1 Neve ft. John-Dennis Renken
2. / A2 True At First Light
3. / A3 Keep Going ft. Sean Haefeli, Aki Himanen, Umberto Lepore
4. / A4 Atmen ft. John-Dennis Renken, Alberto Fiori
5. / B1 Something Dies ft. Lamia
6. / B2 Hot Debut ft. John-Dennis Renken
7. / B3 At Least For A While ft. Gianluca Petrella
8. / B4 Wasted Time ft. Lamia
9. / B5 What We Used To Feel ft. Kay Ketting, John-Dennis Renken

Featuring: Aki Himanen – Trumpet (A3) / Sean Haefeli – Voice (A3) / Umberto Lepore – Double Bass (A3) / Chris Hill – Drums (A4) / Alberto Fiori – Keys (A4) / John-Dennis Renken – Trumpet (A1, A4, B2, B5) / Michele Cavallari – Synth Bass, Keys (B1), Keys (B3), Synth Bass, Fx. (B4) / Bob Meanza – Fx (B1) / Lamia – Voice (B1, B4) / Gianluca Petrella – Trombone (B3) / Gioele Serena – Drums (B1) / Kay Ketting – Drums (B5)

The album will be released in a limited edition of 200 vinyl copies, distributed in collaboration with Flake Records Japan. Special Collector’s Edition: 50 copies (Coloured & splattered Vinyl). 

Available now @ 505theband.bandcamp.com/album/505-true-at-first-light-lp

505 are happy to announce the Record Release Party in Berlin at Rough Trade Record Store with Live

Record Release Party 27.02.26 Free, from 8pm. Karl-Marx-Str. 101 BERLIN