Gigi Masin & Kar
Live @ Rialto S. Ambrogio 03.05.2007

In concert - Scatole Sonore, May 3, 2007

On vacation in Rome for a few days, I discovered, at the last moment, a concert by Gigi Masin. I left my wife and friends to go to the cinema and rushed to Rialto Sant'Ambrogio, an artistic/musical venue in Rome just a step away from the Tiber Island.

It was my brother who introduced me to this musician, whom I unfortunately snubbed until I found him as the original author of a beautiful piece by Björk. I then discovered a whole series of 'reprises' of his music by other groups and musicians, which made me fully understand the stature of this Italian artist. I arrived at Rialto Sant'Ambrogio in a rush and the set by Kar had already started, beautiful contemporary music, volcanic sounds and impulses, electronic noises and rustles. Two musicians whom I intend to know and listen to again, a true and authentic discovery.

Describing Masin's concert as 'emotional' is somewhat reductive; I realize I'm speaking of deep and strong feelings, but listening to his music takes you 'elsewhere'... I remember my brother telling me that Masin's music (his 1989 record which we've played millions of times...) makes you remember forgotten things, which is pure poetry for me. You can still find some of his old vinyl on eBay; in recent years he has released a couple of beautiful CDs. Do you know William Basinsky? 'Stars of the Lid'? Of course, yes, I imagine... Then we're there, the territory is the same, with a few years in advance on ours and with a total and guilty lack of image and promotion.

The other evening a small keyboard and a laptop were enough to give me an hour of joy and great music, an experience I only hope will not remain unique. Music must be sought like a treasure, I just wonder how many wonderful musicians there are in our country, unknown and hidden... People like Masin, whom you can find in concert in Brussels or Berlin, but in Italy?...

Thanks to Rialto Sant'Ambrogio and the 'Scatole Sonore' festival for having the courage to present a musician of such level. How about a concert in my Sicily?

Tom