Manuel Volpe & Rhabdomantic Orchestra

Manuel Volpe & Rhabdomantic Orchestra: Weaving Psychedelic Tapestry

Manuel Volpe, a multi-instrumentalist and composer, leads the Rhabdomantic Orchestra, a collective of musicians crafting psychedelic soundscapes reminiscent of the 60s but with a contemporary edge. They blend elements of psychedelic rock, jazz, and experimental music, creating a sonic experience both familiar and fresh.

Their music is characterized by:

• Ethereal melodies: Volpe’s signature guitar work, often layered with soaring flute and synth lines, evokes a sense of otherworldly beauty.
• Grooving rhythms: The orchestra’s tight rhythm section, featuring drums, bass, and percussion, provides a solid foundation for their hypnotic melodies.
• Improvisational freedom: Volpe encourages his bandmates to explore their creativity, resulting in dynamic and unpredictable performances.
• Lyrical depth: While primarily instrumental, their music often features spoken word elements and subtle vocal harmonies, adding layers of meaning to their sonic tapestry.

Most Known Songs:

• “The Serpent’s Embrace”: A hypnotic journey through swirling psychedelic textures and driving rhythms.
• “Cosmic Dance”: A soaring instrumental piece showcasing Volpe’s masterful guitar work and the orchestra’s dynamic interplay.
• “Whispers from the Void”: A moody and atmospheric piece, filled with ethereal melodies and haunting soundscapes.

Similar Artists:

• Pink Floyd: Both share a love for psychedelic soundscapes and long, atmospheric compositions.
• The Doors: The orchestra’s bluesy influences and penchant for the mystical resonate with the Doors’ signature sound.
• Sun Ra: Their experimental approach to music, incorporating elements of jazz and avant-garde, echoes Sun Ra’s cosmic explorations.

Friends & Collaborators:

• The Flaming Lips: Volpe has collaborated with the Flaming Lips on several occasions, performing with them and sharing their penchant for sonic experimentation.
• The Brian Jonestown Massacre: The orchestra has performed alongside the Brian Jonestown Massacre, sharing a stage with other like-minded psychedelic artists.
• The Black Angels: Volpe has expressed admiration for The Black Angels, citing their revival of classic psychedelic rock as an inspiration.

Beyond the Stage:

Manuel Volpe & Rhabdomantic Orchestra are not just musicians; they are artists who seek to create a complete sensory experience. Their performances are often theatrical, incorporating elements of light, projections, and visual art.

Volpe, a passionate advocate for the psychedelic experience, views his music as a means to explore consciousness and expand perception. He encourages listeners to embrace the journey and discover their own meaning within the music’s intricate tapestry.