Italian multi instrumentalist, producer, composer, Stefano De Santis, has been a go-to session player in many projects across multiple genres – from Jazz to Funk, Reggae, and Pop. As a solo artist, Stefano has been turning heads with his innovative fusions of Jazz, funk, Broken Beat with releases such as the bossa infused ‘Barra Nova’ (Mother Tongue Records) and his ‘Unreachable Galaxy’ EP (Ramrock Red), the spiritual jazz EP, ‘A Kind of Prayer’ and the Jazzfunk 7inch, ‘Santos ’79’ (via Colin Curtis). As his ‘New Beginning’ EP lands on Quattro Bambole, DMCWorld goes Trainspotting with Stefano De Santis.
Stefano De Santis – Roy – Quattro Bambole
‘Roy’ is fresh from my ‘New Beginning’ EP. I composed this tune while I was in London, and naturally, it carries the brokenbeat vibe of the West End. It’s a genre I love because it encompasses many of my musical influences: jazz, funk, electronic music, and the syncopated rhythms of club sounds.
Sofatalk (Feat. Erin Buku) – Two Hearts – Cognitiva Rec
Dope track from Italian producer Sofatak, on which I had the pleasure of playing some keyboards. It draws inspiration from late ’80s Chicago house production, recreating the unmistakable sound of iconic labels like Think, Bottom Line, Big Beat, and Easy Street.
Caixa Cubo – Mondo Aviao – Farout Recordings
Azymuth has been one of my biggest musical influences. Caixa Cubo carries on the tradition of this legendary Brazilian group, delivering powerful grooves, airy melodic themes, and all the joy that defines Brazilian music.
Galliano – Pleasure, Joy & Happiness – Brownswood
I’ve always loved Galliano; in my opinion, they’re the most important group from the ’90s Acid Jazz scene. Their new album marks a fantastic comeback, and this is my favourite track from it. Good vibes, soul, and a smooth, live sound.
Kiefer – Cute – Stones Throw
Kiefer is one of the most interesting and talented pianists/producers of recent years. His ability to blend jazz harmonies with hip hop is truly impressive. This live track is a perfect example: a strong Dilla-inspired groove, great interplay, and a dynamic electric piano solo.
Leon Phal – One Step Further – Heavenly Sweetness
Leon Phal is a French saxophone player, and this track is a live house groove. His ability to break free from rigid orthodoxy, blending elements of tradition with the codes of rap, electronic music, and modern treatments of vintage groove, is truly remarkable.
Tamil Rogeon – Ascend It – BBE
Fantastic track by violinist and producer Tamil Rogeon. It channels all the essence of ’70s jazz fusion, with a solid, meditative groove, a hypnotic bassline, and solo moments of great depth.
Opolopo & Angela Johnson (Feat Kaidi Tatham) – Buffalo – Reel People Music
All the genius of Kaidi Tatham shines through in this tune by Swedish producer Opolopo featuring Angela Johnson. It’s a fusion of future funk with stunning arrangements and refined production, highlighted by a groovy and jazzy piano solo.
Ezra Collective – N29 – Partisan
Super jam from the Mercury Prize winners. The rhythm section is incredibly solid. I really enjoyed the atmosphere created by pianist Joe Armon-Jones in this tune, showcasing a strong personality in the Rhodes solo.
Jamiroquai – Space Cowboy (Michael Gray’s Good Vibe Zone Extended) – Sony Music
I grew up with the music of Jamiroquai, and through them, I discovered countless artists from the funk and boogie tradition. This track is timeless; it takes me back to my youth, and the rework by Michael Gray is exceptional. Let’s hit the dance floor!
Stefano De Santis ‘New Beginning’ EP (incl. Sean McCabe & Boogie Cafe Dub) is out now on both vinyl and digital on Quattro Bambole Music.
