Il canto di malavita: la musica della mafia

Il canto di malavita: la musica della mafia. Hamburg: Pias, 2000 (CD)

Il canto di malavita is a collection of authentic songs of "blood, honor and discretion" about the Mafia in Calabria. The music of La Musica Della Mafia: Il Canto di Malavita captures a conflicting era, while also a time of romance. This 24-song collection reflects upon the life of the "'Ndrangheta," or Calabrian Mafia, and its history of violence and the consequences thereof in southern Italy. This particular mob group was not initially known for its brutal ways; the Calabrian Mafia were protectors of their country and vigorously fought against a corrupt government. Calabrian native and journalist Francesco Sbano and folk musician Mimmo Siclari composed a striking look at a highly criticized culture and put words to music for an emotional, beautiful retrospective. La Musica Della Mafia: Il Canto di Malavita, which was banned in Italy after its European release in spring 2000, highlights Mediterranean folk melodies lush with accordions, mandolins, and tambourines. Classic Neapolitan ballads are prominent, but tinges of Hispanic music make the album more familiar. What makes this an interesting album is the inclusion of the late singer Francesco "Ciccio" Scarpelli. Scarpelli, who recorded under the moniker Fred Scotti, was the only Mafia member to perform in public, and these songs are a haunting reminder of his talent. Tragically, Scarpelli was shot dead in 1971 after falling in love with a woman of another well-known mob. Scotti's own "Tarantella Guappa" bellows a playful roar while "Canto di Carcerato" showcases an undying cry in his voice. The pain is pure and obvious on La Musica Della Mafia: Il Canto di Malavita, suitable for those who'd like to forget and for others who'd like to discover the charm of a dark period of time.

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