Italian electronic artist Andrea Benini, frontman of cross-genre band Mop Mop, is readying the release of his solo debut album, ‘Drumphilia Volume 1‘ later this month.
The project is a response to many years spent working with, learning about and listening to African and Caribbean percussion. Conventional rhythmic influences are mixed with analogue drum machines and drum synths to create a hybrid sound that continues in the tradition of artists like Frances Bebey.
Speaking about the album Benini says: “It is a journey inspired by early African electronic music and modern beats”.
The aim of the 12-track project was to create melody and texture using only carefully tuned percussion instruments, whether organic or electronic. Bass lines were created by blending drum synth tones with the acoustic marimbula, a traditional Caribbean instrument that was often used in place of a bass guitar. Melodies were created with everything from log drums and thumb pianos to early Soviet drum modules and the trailblazing Pearl Syncussion SY-1.
From the kalimba, to the drum synthesisers, to the marimbula, and the rest, Drumphilia Volume 1 was entirely written, performed, arranged and produced by Benini.
Taken from the LP, you can listen to the premiere of album opener ‘Jawa’ below.
