Oteme
“Il corpo nel sogno”

OTEME (acronym for Osservatorio delle Terre Emerse) is the musical project of Lucca-based musician Stefano Giannotti: in reality, it is a true musical laboratory under the banner of contamination between classical and "popular" music. There are affinities with chamber music, sophisticated singer-songwriter music, ethnic music, and Rock In Opposition but, in the end, Giannotti's writing is original and difficult to classify. Now, released by Ma.Ra.Cash., is the third Oteme album entitled "Il corpo nel sogno." I must say, given the premises, I was expecting some rather challenging material: however, while listening, despite the cited influences, accessibility never falters. I confess that, when I read the term Rock In Opposition in the presentation notes, I was a bit suspicious: I find many of the productions labeled under this category often pretentious and pointless. I don't want to be misunderstood: I've loved groups like Henry Cow, Univers Zero, and Art Zoyd, but I often find that avant-garde music has lost its ability to communicate with the audience. But this is not the case with Oteme: in "Il corpo nel sogno," the intention to create refined, pataphysical music that is, at the same time, very communicative never fails. I believe, in particular, that this album could appeal to fans of Robert Wyatt. Oteme is a true chamber orchestra: Stefano Giannotti's voice recites absurd and surreal texts and alternates with Emanuela Lari's. The album consists of 12 musical sketches in which musical pieces alternate with instrumental ones: those with vocals ultimately prove the most convincing. The electronic interludes are kept to a minimum and are not always convincing. "Il corpo nel sogno" is an album recommended for those who frequent research and avant-garde music but which could potentially attract a much wider audience. Orthodox and staunch followers of symphonic progressive should abstain. Available on Bandcamp: https://maracashrecords.bandcamp.com/album/il-corpo-nel-sogno.