Almamegretta

The Profile

Almamegretta are a Neapolitan (Italian) band frequently described in the reviews as a major ’90s-era Italian project that made dub central while fusing reggae, electronics and Mediterranean/Arab/African influences, with Raiz as the iconic voice and D.RaD (Stefano Facchielli) a key figure in programming.

From the reviews: the core lineup cited for the 4/4 era includes Raiz (vocals), Gennaro T. (drums), Paolo Polcari (keyboards) and D.RaD/Stefano Facchielli (programming). D.RaD is reported to have died in a car accident in October 2004. Reviews mention collaborations/associations including Massive Attack (including Karmacoma), Asian Dub Foundation, and the producer Adrian Sherwood for Sanacore. Controra is presented as a reunion after Raiz left in 2003 and returned after about 10 years.

Across these DeBaser reviews, Almamegretta are portrayed as a landmark Neapolitan band that made dub a centerpiece while blending reggae, electronics and Mediterranean/Arab/African colors. Sanacore and Lingo are repeatedly framed as peaks: atmospheric, meticulously arranged, and culturally hybrid. Reviewers highlight Raiz’s distinctive voice, the importance of programming (D.RaD), and a reputation built on experimentation and emotional impact. Later work like Controra is described as a strong reunion statement, still rooted in the classic groove while updating the sound.