Witching Riffs: Behind the Sound of SBARCO

Introduction: Due to time constraints as regular individuals running Witching Buzz and focusing primarily on writing reviews, we are limited to publishing only one (occasionally two) review(s) per day. However, we strongly believe in providing greater exposure to deserving bands and musicians who have put in immense effort. As a result, we have launched a new section called “Witching Riffs: Behind the Sound.” In this section, we have crafted a series of intriguing questions that we pose to every band or musician who wishes to share more about their unique projects. While the questions remain the same for each participant, the diversity among bands ensures that the answers will be fascinating and diverse. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this captivating journey as we delve into the minds and stories of these talented artists.

SBARCO / Italy

What drew you to the immersive and hypnotic sounds? How do you aim to captivate your listeners with this genre?
Our sound stems from the desire to give the listener a wide-ranging experience so that he or she can perceive ever-changing worlds.

Can you share the story behind your band name? How does it reflect the essence of your music?
During one of the first rehearsals, Marco (Bassman) told about the time when a musical project of his lasted one day, nicknamed the shipwreck project. In that instant a glance was enough to exclaim: “We could call ourselves SBARCO” 😂. The name directly inspired the concept of the record , especially in the lyrics.

What are some unconventional or unexpected influences that have shaped your unique blend?
The influences are multiple. The rock base unites us but we each have our own preferences. Bands like Deftones, Quicksand, Handsome, Refused, Biffy Clyro, Mastodon, Mark Lanegan etc. find their place in our sound. Then in the trio there are those who listen to jazz, 70s rock, funk, and metal.

How do you approach creating expansive and atmospheric soundscapes? What techniques or methods do you employ to achieve that signature vibe?
Ours is a straightforward sound where the use of distortion generated by the head unit outlines the songs. However, there is no lack of all those sounds in the pedalboard that help us in generating even softer dynamics.

Are there specific themes or emotions you seek to convey through your music? How do alternative music help you express those concepts effectively?
Our sound comes from the right balance between heavy rock riffs and melodies. There is no precise guideline, melodies, atmospheres are born at that precise moment when your heart communicates them to you. It is from an idea of the voice or guitar that the song composition is born.

Share a remarkable moment or incident from your journey as a band that exemplifies the spirit of your music.
Let’s say that the focus we place on songwriting sometimes leads us to the clash to find the best solution.

In what ways do you envision your music progressing or evolving in the future? Are there any new elements or experimental approaches you’d like to incorporate?
The sound will always be evolving, as well as arrangements and riffs. What will be the way forward? Well, as I said before the heart😂 will tell us.

Is there a particular song in your discography that perfectly encapsulates the essence of your music? Please elaborate on its creation and significance.
I think the song The Boat pt.1 encapsulates all of this. It was the first song to be conceived in its entirety. It was the one that started the whole record. Incidentally, it initially contained within it The boat pt.2 (containing high-energy riffs).
The Boat pt. 1 contains the essence of the whole record.

Are there any emerging or lesser-known artists within your music genre realm that you find inspiring or deserving of more recognition? Feel free to share their names and what you appreciate about their work.
SLOMOSA, ASG, COMRAD, TONS.

What do you hope listeners experience or feel when they immerse themselves in your compositions? Is there a specific mood or sensation you aim to evoke?
I hope they enjoy it from beginning to end because it is a record that you have to immerse yourself in. It is like going on a journey, it has to be experienced to the fullest. What about the moods? Well during any journey one is overwhelmed by a thousand emotional nuances. The SBARCO’s record is exactly like that.

Turbo Regime:
– Fuzz or distortion?

Both of them 😉
– Analog or digital effects?
True to Analog.
– Sabbath or Zeppelin?
BOTH OF THEM 😂😂
– Heavy riff or mind-bending solo?
Heavy riff.
– Vintage gear or modern equipment?
Both depending on the case.

https://www.facebook.com/sbarcomusic

Label: Argonauta Records
PR: Grand Sounds Promotion