Bravo Baboon - Humanify (2019) [Hi-Res]

«As artists, we feel obliged not to stay quiet.» Rome-based band Bravo Baboon has a clear mission: using music to tell stories means having a powerful way to fight back «any form of abuse, racism and lack of respect towards human beings and the planet we live in.» Their new album Humanify, supported by Puglia Sounds (Regione Puglia - FSC 2014/2020 - Patto per la Puglia - Investiamo nel vostro futuro), marks their debut on Auand Records.

The trio features Dario Giacovelli (bass, double bass, effects), Gianluca Massetti (piano, synth, keyboards) and Moreno Maugliani (drums, pad). Besides the music experiences they have shared in the past, they rely on a valuable friendship. Each of them has an active role in the creative process. Compositions are mostly for Massetti and Giacovelli – a certain taste for melodies and Mediterranean sounds intertwined with generous interplay and a sort of fascination with electronics – while Maugliani adds his elegant drumming, occasionally turning it into an aggressive mood when needed.

Based on «research and study of contemporary music that includes several styles», Giacovelli went through a composition and pre-production phase along with Massetti. Then they added electronics. «Some tracks are conceived as in-progress, open-structured stories. Others include jazz elements. Sometimes the composition is based on a music flow of grooves and loops that comes from the hip hop area». Enriching the lineup, three young and talented members of the Roman scene: Simone Alessandrini (alto sax), Francesco Fratini (trumpet) and Carolina Bubbico (voice).

The meaning of their mission it to stand up for what is relevant: «Given the era we live in, we decided to tell stories through our music and highlight that finding a sense of humanity is key». “Humanify” is also the first single from the album, and the only track featuring a singer. «It’s the most hybrid track in the album – the bass player adds – It’s jazz, rock, groove. It’s 100% us. And our name, Bravo Baboon, is an ironic way to call this silly human being, who is going backwards instead of moving forward».

Gianluca Massetti - piano, keyboards
Dario Giacovelli - el. bass
Moreno Maugliani - drums