Aktuala

Introduction to Aktuala's Tappeto Volante

Released in 1976, Tappeto Volante is the third and final studio album by the Italian avant-garde group Aktuala. This album was issued under the Bla Bla label (BBXL 10009). The title translates to "Flying Carpet," suggesting a journey through diverse musical landscapes.

Recording and Influences

The album compiles a series of acoustic improvisations and field recordings made between 1974 and 1976. The recording sessions took place in various locations across Italy and North Africa, particularly Morocco. This geographical diversity heavily influences the music, as it incorporates a wide array of cultural elements.

Produced by Pino Massara and engineered by Andrea Tamassia and Francesco Cavalli Sforza, the album features a rich tapestry of sounds. The instrumentation is eclectic, including traditional instruments such as the ney, bagpipes, sitar, tabla, and kalimba. These elements contribute to the album's exploration of African polyrhythms, Indian ragas, and Mediterranean folk traditions.

Key Collaborations

Tappeto Volante sees significant contributions from prominent artists. Indian master percussionist Trilok Gurtu plays a central role on tracks like "Mr. Trilok," "Ugula Baliue African Planet," and "Waruna." His unique percussion techniques blend seamlessly with the other instruments. Italian singer-songwriter Claudio Rocchi also makes a notable appearance, contributing keyboards on the track "Echo Raga."

Musical Composition

The album consists of thirteen tracks that weave together various musical styles. It presents a fusion of folk rock, jazz, and world music, creating an intricate soundscape. The musicianship is characterized by improvisation, allowing for spontaneous creativity within each track. This approach highlights the interplay between different cultural rhythms and melodies.

Lineup of Musicians

The core lineup of Aktuala on this album includes Walter Maioli, Daniele Cavallanti, Antonio Cerantola, Trilok Gurtu, Marjon Klok, Kela Rangoni Machiavelli, Fabrizio Cassano, Roberto Del Piano, and Filippo Monico. Each member brings their own expertise and cultural background to the collective sound.

Conclusion

Tappeto Volante offers a unique listening experience that reflects the band's dedication to musical exploration. This album emphasizes a blend of traditional and contemporary sounds, making it a noteworthy entry in the fusion genre. It was released on vinyl format in 1976.