Slowaxx is the solo project and live band created by Riccardo Chiarucci, a composer and producer who hails from the sunny climes of Tuscany. This week he releases ‘Shapes Interfusion’ on Broken District, a six-track blend of home studio production and live recorded sessions that incorporate lo-fi, hazy jazz, mind-warping electronica, with lashings of hip-hop swagger.
Our guest interviewer zooms in on the valley of Valdesa in the province of Siena, to Colle di Val d’Elsa. With a population of just 22,000 it is internationally renowned for its art scene and heritage. Slowaxx gives us some insight into this stunning area.
The area of Valdelsa, and in particular the city where I live, Colle di Val d’Elsa, has always been a flourishing province of artists, especially in the alternative rock scene from the 1980s onwards, which are the roots from which I have grown.
The Valdelsa music scene, in recent years, has maintained its roots while evolving into more electronic sounds. There are several young musicians that are really worth keeping an eye on.
It’s difficult to say how much of my identity comes from Valdesa, I should ask others. Maybe the harmony between the countryside and the hillside villages, along with the enthusiasm from the alternative rock scene of the late 80s and early 90s, may have contributed.
What is your favourite place to sit and watch the world go by?
One of the most beautiful spots in Colle is definitely the Bulwark (Il Baluardo) in the old village of Colle Val d’Elsa, from where you can have a view of the town where I live and scrutinize every single alley. It’s nice to sit on a bench and observe the city as it moves.
Link to Il Baluardo Here
What is your favourite music venue?
In Colle di Val d’Elsa, we have a venue that has made history and is definitely the Sonar.
Sonar on Facebook
Favourite Restaurant?
Il Frantoio is a restaurant that leaves you speechless, and the young guys running it are doing an excellent job. Located in the old town of Colle di Val d’Elsa, it’s a gem to discover.
Il Frantoio on Facebook
What is your favourite bar?
A new bar where you can definitely drink and eat high-quality offerings, in a unique atmosphere, is certainly Flōs 47, located in the old town.
Flōs 47 on Instagram
What is your top tip for the best small club?
The 1001 is definitely the small club where the vibe is always through the roof.
1001 on Facebook
What is the best record shop in this area?
Unfortunately, there are no record stores in Colle di Val d’Elsa, so I usually go to Florence to visit my favorites Logout and Isoma. Fabio Della Torre (Logout / Bosconi Records) and Lorenzo Fortino (Isoma) always pull out underground gems that you can’t say no to.
Logout Records on Instagram
Isoma on Instagram
When time permits, what is the thing you like to do most in your city?
When I can, I go for a run with my little dog Dylan in the hills surrounded by nature in Sant’Andrea, where you can see the old town of Colle di Val d’Elsa. It’s one of the things I love the most.
Slowaxx on Facebook
Slowaxx on Soundcloud
Slowaxx on Instagram
Slowaxx on Bandcamp
buy Slowaxx – Shapes Interfusion EP Here
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