health
“I thought I’d finish the album then die”: how Angelo De Augustine came back from a medical nightmare
When the singer-songwriter and Sufjan Stevens collaborator became gravely ill, he had to learn to walk, talk, hear, play and sing again. Music – and a love of antique instrumentation – helped him rebuild
TL;DR
- Angelo De Augustine collapsed in October 2022, experiencing strange sensations and losing control of his body, leading to days of tests with no clear diagnosis.
- Despite his illness, he was determined to finish his album 'Toil and Trouble,' believing he might die after its completion.
- De Augustine's previous work includes 'Swim Inside the Moon' and an album with Sufjan Stevens, 'A Beginner's Mind,' and his song 'Time' was featured in the movie 'A Good Person.'
- Following his illness, De Augustine had to relearn basic functions like walking, talking, hearing, playing, and singing.
- His new album, 'Angel in Plainclothes,' is informed by his recovery and explores themes of life's transience, featuring reflections and unique antique instrumentation.
- Emerging research suggests his symptoms may have been related to chronic fear and stress impacting his central nervous system's ability to self-regulate.
- De Augustine's musical background includes a mother who was a professional vocalist and an early interest in soccer before music took hold as his primary means of expression.
- His recovery involved physical and mental exercises, including activities in water and a structured daily program, which helped him retrain his brain and slowly regain his abilities.
- For 'Angel in Plainclothes,' De Augustine collaborated with other musicians and utilized a variety of antique instruments to achieve a unique sound.
- He has slowly begun performing live again, finding the experience challenging but ultimately rewarding, and now prioritizes living a good life over solely focusing on his songwriting career.