Umberto

Umberto is the primary project of Matt Hill, a multi-instrumentalist who emerged from the Kansas City experimental scene. Hill's work as Umberto is a meticulous study in the aesthetics of 1970s and 80s genre cinema, specifically the Italian Giallo films scored by Goblin and the minimalist synth scores of John Carpenter.

His sound identity is defined by the use of vintage analog hardware, characterized by driving arpeggios, ominous minor-key progressions, and a heavy reliance on the Roland TR-808 and TR-909 drum machines. Throughout his career, Hill has moved from the more overt horror-tribute of his early releases like 'From the Grave...' to more sophisticated, abstract electronic compositions on albums like 'Alienation' and 'Helpless Spectator'. He is a key figure in the modern synth-revival, occupying a space between the dance-floor-ready synthwave of the 2010s and the more academic 'Progressive Electronic' world. His work is highly regarded by collectors of soundtrack music and experimental electronics alike, often cited for its impeccable production and ability to evoke specific visual narratives without the use of lyrics. Hill's involvement with the Not Not Fun and Rock Action labels has further cemented his position within the global underground electronic community.