Pontos

Dipnoi are living fossils: fish furnished with rudimentary lungs (which is why they're also called lung fish), allowing them to take refuge in burrows during dry periods and breathe air. As an analogy for the group that takes their name, it asserts an enduring will to challenge the severe economic and cultural conditions hindering musicians to realise their art.

The trio comprises Valerio Cairone (on diatonic accordion, zampogna a paro bagpipes and vocals), Marco Carnemolla (fretless bass and vocals) and Mario Gulisano (percussion, Jew's harp and voice). The combination of timbres and techniques guarantee a creative result, with all the melodic and harmonic strength of the diatonic accordion and zampogna supported by the steady bass and percussion. A standout track is ‘Terramatta’, in which a catchy groove supports the bagpipe-led melody. In ‘Suez/Om Jag Hade Vingar’ the band's minimalism encounters the Swedish vocal quartet Kraja and Laura Cortese & The Dance Cards string trio. ‘Ponte Dell'Ovest’ is a fine waltz-time ballad, while ‘Oceania’ features various melodic and harmonic elements, which move from an intimate tune into a danceable number. A fascinating and accomplished fusion: you'll keep coming back to Pontos.