calibro35

Calibro 35: A Groove Through Italian Crime Cinema

Calibro 35, the Italian instrumental band, isn’t just a band. They are a sonic embodiment of the iconic Italian crime cinema known as poliziotteschi. Their music pulsates with the same gritty energy and raw emotion that define these films, transporting listeners back to the streets of 70s Rome, filled with smoky jazz clubs and tense car chases.

From The Shadows to The Spotlight:

The band’s roots lie in the shadows of the Italian film industry. Nicola “Basso” Tessari, the driving force behind the group, started his musical journey as a bassist for renowned Italian composer Riz Ortolani, the man behind iconic soundtracks like Django.

The name “Calibro 35” itself is a direct nod to the genre. It refers to the calibre of a firearm, a symbol of the violence and tension permeating these films.

The Sound of The Streets:

Calibro 35’s music is a cocktail of influences. Soul, jazz, funk, and rock all simmer in their sound, creating a unique blend that perfectly captures the atmosphere of poliziotteschi.

Their music is both melancholic and energetic, mirroring the moral ambiguity of these films. Their tracks like “Città di Cartone” (City of Cardboard) and “Napoli in Notte” (Naples at Night) paint vivid sonic landscapes, capturing the urban grit and the seedy underbelly of Italian society.

The Soundtrack to Cinema:

Beyond their own albums, Calibro 35 has become synonymous with poliziotteschi soundtracks. Their music has been featured in numerous films, from Quentin Tarantino’s “Inglourious Basterds” to the Italian crime series “Gomorrah”.

One funny fact: the band’s music was even featured in a video game about a rat that investigates crime. This speaks to the versatility of their sound and its ability to transcend genres and media.

A Groove for All Time:

Calibro 35 has become more than just a band. They are a movement, a vibrant community of music lovers who share a passion for the grit and the groove of Italian crime cinema. Their music continues to evolve, blending the classic with the contemporary, keeping the spirit of poliziotteschi alive and kicking.

So, crank up the volume, put on your best fedora, and let the groovy sound of Calibro 35 take you on a wild ride through the streets of Italian cinema.