Album of the Week: A Wild Ride with Pizzica Indiavolata by Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino
Welcome to another edition of Album of the Week at Crazy Alchemist! This week, fasten your seatbelts because we're embarking on a thrilling sonic adventure with Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino (CGS) and their album "Pizzica Indiavolata". From the moment I hit play, I was whisked away to the sun-drenched landscapes of Salento, Italy, the band's stomping ground.
Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino: Time Travelers of Music
Imagine a band that's not just a band, but a time machine. That's CGS for you! Founded by Daniele Durante in 1975 and later passed on to his son Mauro Durante in 2007, CGS has been the heartbeat of Salento's traditional music scene for over four decades. They're like musical superheroes, saving the day by preserving their culture's unique sound.
Did You Know?
Their music, particularly the pizzica tarantata, is a wild dance party with a twist. Originating from the belief that the frenzied dance could cure the condition known as tarantism (caused by the bite of a tarantula), the pizzica tarantata is a whirlwind of fast-paced, hypnotic rhythms. So, next time you have a spider bite, you know what to do - just dance it off!
Pizzica Indiavolata: A Sonic Roller Coaster
"Pizzica Indiavolata", released in 2012, is like a sonic roller coaster ride. With 13 tracks, each one takes you on a wild journey through the heart of Salento, blending traditional and contemporary sounds. My personal favorite is "Nu te fermare", a track that's like a shot of espresso - vibrant, energetic, and guaranteed to get your foot tapping!
Collaborations: The Spice to Our Sonic Stew
What's a good stew without some extra spice? Ballaké Sissoko and Piers Faccini are the special ingredients that make this album a flavorful feast for the ears. Sissoko, a kora maestro from Mali, sprinkles some West African magic into the mix, while Faccini, an English singer-songwriter, adds a dash of his eclectic style, creating a delicious blend of sounds that's sure to satisfy your musical appetite.
Conclusion
"Pizzica Indiavolata" is more than just an album; it's a passport to a world where music knows no boundaries. It's an album that's left a lasting impression on me, and I'm pretty sure it'll do the same for you.
So, what are you waiting for? Hop on this musical roller coaster with Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino's "Pizzica Indiavolata". Feel the rhythm, dance to the beat, and let the music whisk you away to the sunny landscapes of Salento.
And once you've taken the ride, don't be shy! Share your experience with friends, family, or on social media. Which track was your favorite? Did you dance off any spider bites? We're all ears!
