Angelo De Augustine's Journey Through Illness and Recovery

On Halloween 2022, singer-songwriter Angelo De Augustine collapsed at his home in Los Angeles, experiencing severe symptoms that left him incapacitated. Despite being rushed to the hospital, doctors were unable to provide a definitive diagnosis, advising him to return only if his condition worsened. During this tumultuous time, De Augustine was determined to complete his album, *Toil and Trouble*, which he had been working on for a year. He expressed a sense of urgency, stating, “I wanted to get it finished and then thought I was probably gonna die.” The album was ultimately released in 2023, but De Augustine's health challenges persisted.

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Following the release of *Toil and Trouble*, De Augustine underwent a long recovery process, relearning basic functions such as walking, talking, and singing. His experiences during this time informed his latest album, *Angel in Plainclothes*, which features introspective themes and reflections on life's fragility. De Augustine's lead single, "Mirror Mirror," metaphorically explores his feelings of disconnection during his illness, describing himself as “like a ghost.” He attributes his health issues to chronic stress and fear, suggesting that the music industry can be a significant source of pressure.

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Throughout his recovery, De Augustine sought support from various collaborators, including Kevin Morby and his mother, who contributed to the album's production. He also found solace in nature, often visiting a studio in Topanga Canyon, where he recorded "The Cure," a song that draws parallels between illness and addiction. The album's sound is characterized by its use of unique instrumentation, including antique instruments like a bowed psaltery and a Marxophone, which De Augustine actively seeks out as part of his creative process.

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De Augustine's journey has been marked by gradual progress, as he navigates the complexities of recovery. He recently performed live for the first time in five years, an experience he described as both challenging and rewarding. Reflecting on his past, he acknowledges that his singular focus on songwriting may have contributed to his health struggles. Now, he emphasizes the importance of balance, stating, “I just want to live a good life.” As he continues to rebuild his career, De Augustine remains committed to creating music that resonates with his experiences and newfound perspective.

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• “I got all these strange sensations and knew something was very wrong,” — Angelo De Augustine, Singer-Songwriter

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• “I probably pushed through way too much to make that album,” — Angelo De Augustine

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• “It gave me a way to express myself, which most people don’t have,” — Angelo De Augustine

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• “For so long, my only focus was trying to be a great songwriter and perhaps I paid the price for that. Now I’d rather not have tried so hard. I just want to live a good life.” — Angelo De Augustine

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Angelo De Augustine's journey through illness and recovery has profoundly shaped his artistic expression. With the release of *Angel in Plainclothes*, he not only shares his personal narrative but also invites listeners to reflect on the transient nature of life and the importance of resilience. As he continues to navigate his path, De Augustine's story serves as a testament to the healing power of music and self-discovery.

The Guardian