EEF (Early Ettringite Formation)
EEF — Early Ettringite Formation — is a dynamic quintet of young Italian musicians who blend Prog, Funk, Rock, Jazz, into a powerful and original sound.
The project was born from the creative vision of Mattia Leoni (drums) and Umberto Ferretti (guitar). After years of writing and experimentation, they found the perfect lineup to bring their musical ideas to life — and EEF was born.
Their journey began in 2018 with a three-track demo that led them to the Tour Music Fest finals in Rome, where they achieved third place nationwide. In 2020, EEF released their debut album Horror Vacui, recorded at Astronave Recording Studio in Recanati. The record explores the artistic concept of “horror vacui” — the fear of empty space — through richly layered arrangements and sonic detail that reflect the “decorative exuberance” found in Gothic and Baroque art.
A new chapter opened in 2020 with the arrival of Edoardo Gili on vocals. The refreshed lineup quickly found its groove, experimenting with new sounds and releasing the singles “Downtown” (2021) and “What I Should Say” (2022).
EEF’s growing reputation soon reached the international stage. In 2023, they competed in Una Voce per San Marino, the gateway to the Eurovision Song Contest, where they reached the Grand Final, finishing 9th overall out of more than a thousand artists worldwide. That same year, they won second prize at the international contest On The Music Waves, and again took second place at Music For the Next Generation, judged by Gegè Telesforo, Malika Ayane, and Alberto Martini.
The singles “That’s My Girl” (December 2023) and “Something for You” (March 2024) marked a new evolution in the band’s sound — fresh, vibrant, and emotionally charged.
On June 7, 2024, EEF released their highly anticipated second studio album, What eef? — a playful take on the question “What if?” that invites listeners to dream, explore, and imagine endless possibilities.
Their first live album, Live at MAF, arrived on February 7, 2025, capturing the raw energy and connection that define their performances.
EEF are currently back in the studio, crafting new music and continuing their journey of sonic exploration.
Mattia Leoni (Drums) Umberto Ferretti (Guitar) Edoardo Gili (Voice) Leonardo Rosselli (Sax) Giovanni Golaschi (Bass)