Mr Bongo proudly presents Ritmo Italiano Unspoken Sounds of Italian Tamburo a captivating compilation of percussive-driven, Italian gems curated by Sardinian multi-instrumentalist, percussionist and producer, Gabriele Poso. A journey into the heart of Italian musical history, it celebrates Italys rich rhythmic traditions, showcasing a selection of genre-traversing, Italian treasures from the 60s to the early 90s. Honouring the timeless rhythms of Italian percussion masters, alongside a brand-new exclusive composition by Gabriele, Ritmo Italiano shines a light on the universal, primal language of the drum.

A connection sparked from an early age; percussion has always deeply resonated with Gabriele. It led to years of studying percussion traditions across Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Brazil, crafting his own songwriting skills in the process. An acclaimed producer and compiler, his releases on Yoruba Records, BBE and Soundway Records have garnered global support. Yet a growing need to rediscover the essence of his countrys cultural heritage laid the foundations for this new compilation.

In Gabrieles own words, Italy has always been a crossroads of civilizations, with influences from the Mediterranean, North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe converging over centuries. Ports like Naples, Genoa, and Venice played a crucial role as gateways for musical exchange, a melting pot of sounds and cultures brought by sailors, merchants and travellers. These influences blended with Italys own folk and religious traditions, creating Italys unique and emotionally resonant rhythms.

Across the 12 absorbing tracks, theres jazz influences, Italian library music aesthetics and experimental beats mixing with Afro-Cuban and Mediterranean rhythms. Its a broad selection anchored by the drums. The synth-heavy, 80s jazz funk flavours of Geg Munari’s Police Man, sit side-by-side with the samba-infused Napulitano D’ ‘O Brasil by Don Marino Barreto Jr. Tribal, earthly energy radiates from Nacos Volando Con Milton, with Tullio De Piscopo serving up cosmic disco brilliance, and blistering jazz funk mastery coming courtesy of Agostino Marangolo. Taking the name of the compilation, a new original track by Gabriele, Ritmo Italiano, blends traditional rhythms with contemporary energy, Afro-Latin influences with Italian jazz essence. Recorded live in one take, it captures a raw, unfiltered vibe.

Each track tells a story, connecting the past with the present, and highlighting the deep-rooted traditions that shape Italys rhythms. The collection also offers a glimpse into the diversity of Italian music with a variety of styles from the organic, earthy beats to the more experimental and modern takes on traditional rhythms. Its a reflection of how these rhythms have not only shaped Italian culture but also influenced global music.

A captivating compilation of percussive-driven, Italian gems from the 60s to the early 90s, curated by multi-instrumentalist, percussionist and producer, Gabriele Poso. Includes an exclusive new track by Gabriele.

1. Puccio Roelens E La Sua Grande Orchestra Tv – Caravan
2. Geg Munari Percussion Modern – Police Man
3. Don Marino Barreto Junior – Napolitano D’o Brazil
4. Tony Esposito – Pagaia
5. Naco – Volando Con Milton
6. Rosario Jermano – Grand Oceano
7. Tullio De Piscopo – Temptation
8. Tony Cercola – Lumumba
9. Gabriele Poso – Ritmo Italiano
10. Agostino Marangolo – Certi Giorni Mi Sento Bene, Certi Giorni Mi Sento Male
11. Tony Cercola – Lumumba
12. Vico Anthony And His Percussion Paesanos – Mambo Ravioli