Agricantus – Akoustikòs Vol. 1 (CNI Music, 2018)
Celebrated Sicilian ensemble Agricantus has been making wonderful amalgamations of Italian and world music mixed with electronics since 1993. Although Akoustikòs still contains some electronic elements, it is very subdued and the focus is on enhancing the acoustic side of the band.
Akoustikòs recreates some of Agricantus’ earlier material under a new perspective. The vocalist here is pianist and singer Anita Vitale. She has a multifaceted style that ranges from soul influences to theatrical ourbursts.
The instrumentalists are Mario Crispi on various wind instruments from across the globe, bassist Mario Rivera and percussionist Giovanni Lo Cascio. Crispi and Rivera are the main composers of the ensemble and their creations are an exquisite set of songs rooted in Sicilian traditions, Turkish and North African music, and Australian aboriginal didgeridoo.
The musicians on the album include Anita Vitale on lead vocals, Fender Rhodes and piano; Mario Crispi on archaic wind instruments and vocals; Mario Rivera on 6 string acoustic bass, double bass, guimbri and vocals; and Giovanni Lo Cascio on drum set and percussion.
Guests featured: Massimo Laguardia on frame drums and vocals; Enzo Rao on violin and oud; and Seby Burgio on piano and keyboards.
Akoustikòs showcases the talent of world music alchemists Agricantus in their quest to explore new musical territories.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
