Doomed Confessionary: Gianmarco, Davide, Mattia & Alessio (Sacri Suoni)
Photos by Lorenzo Massa Saluzzo
The second interview to close this day…
From the ashes of the stoner/sludge project known as Stoned Monkey, Sacri Suoni arises. The band’s sound revolves around the concept of “No words, only tons of watt!”, through sonic scapes characterised by obscure, hypnotic and transcendental notes.
Sacri Suoni from Milan, Italy released their debut album »Sacred Is Not Divine« on May 16h, 2023. Current line-up: Gianmarco De Santis (guitar), Davide Basaglia (guitar), Mattia Carabelli (bass) and Alessio Gavioli (drums).
Can you say a few words about your band?
The band emerged as a sonic and conceptual evolution of the stoner/sludge project Stoned Monkey (2016-2022). This evolution entailed a change in lineup and, concurrently, an expansion of the ensemble from a power trio to a quartet. In addition to the lineup change, the project’s sounds shifted towards a darker and more hypnotic tone with pronounced “Doom” influences, giving rise to the band’s slogan “Cosmic Doom.” The primary concept of Sacri Suoni’s music lies in the free interpretation of each individual piece. The absence of vocals serves as the key to fully immerse oneself in the music without adhering to a predetermined text or concept. The goal is to transport the listener through a sonic construction that aims to dissolve cognition and the sense of time for the audience. Currently, the band has released its debut full album, »Sacred Is Not Divine«, available digitally or in cassette (DIY) and vinyl formats (Zann’s Records).
What was the biggest challenge for the band this year?
Certainly, the greatest challenge lies in the evolution of the project itself; the addition of instruments such as a consistently present solo guitar with intricate arrangement lines or the exploration and incorporation of various synthesizers. Another significant challenge this year has undoubtedly been the live aspect, but despite that, we have achieved many satisfactions by sharing the stage with a few but highly renowned groups in this musical universe. To name a few: Acid Mammoth, 1782, Giobia, Kayleth… all fantastic individuals from whom to draw inspiration. We also want to express our gratitude to every single person who has shared, purchased, written about, or mentioned Sacri Suoni. The most significant challenge is to convey the message to the listener through music, and without all of you, this wouldn’t be possible.
What can you be most proud of this year?
In a constantly growing music market like ours, where the musical offerings are abundant, one of the greatest satisfactions of this year has been being included in the Doom Charts of May alongside groups that are dear to us. We take this opportunity to sincerely thank Mel Lie, a contributor at Doom Charts, for echoing our music and believing in us.
What was your biggest regret?
Without a shadow of a doubt, the disappointment of having worked on a tour with one of our favorite Italian bands (we prefer not to disclose names as we want to keep the surprise for the announcement, in case it can be rearranged in the future) that, in the end, couldn’t be organized due to organizational reasons unknown to us.
What was the best concert/tour this year and why?
Let’s return to more serene matters. Undoubtedly, one of the unforgettable moments of this year was sharing the stage with Acid Mammoth and having the opportunity to get to know each other and build connections. They are exquisite, intelligent, and modest individuals. We look forward to discovering what the future holds and hope to share this journey with people of this mentality and approach.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
One of the most significant surprises has been reaching the audience, many reviewers, online and print fanzines, and playlists despite the independent release. We are grateful to each one of you. This demonstrates a sense of connection and a tightly-knit, passionate music community, something not to be taken for granted in these times.
Another surprise is the level of merchandise sales through Bandcamp despite the few live events we have participated in. This truly warms our hearts and motivates us every passing day. Thank you!
Where can we see you live next year (concerts/tours)?
Currently, we are organizing some dates for the upcoming year; in April, we’ll be performing in our city alongside two bands we can’t wait to meet (Zolfo and 3000monkey). At the beginning of the year, we’ll have the honor of playing in a historic venue in northern Italy (Bloom) with an enormous band from the Italian scene! We won’t reveal anything just yet as the announcement is imminent! We are also planning something abroad (Germany/Austria), and there’s something really big in the works, but for now, “mum’s the word.” Our advice is to stay active on social media; we’ll announce everything there.
What are your plans for the next year as a band? What do you personally want the most?
Our main goal for next year is to find a booking agency specializing in our genre that believes in the project and, above all, is willing to collaborate with us. The live aspect in these times is a complex issue, and the support of a booking agency would be a strong pillar for us.
Do you already know what are you doing on New Year’s Eve?
At the moment we don’t really know, so sorry man! haha
How can people best support your band?
The direct purchase through our personal channels (Bandcamp), for a band, considering the meager compensations from major digital stores, is the primary source of income to sustain the project. A simple reshare or even just a like, but also any constructive criticism (as long as it’s thoughtful and not randomly thrown out) makes us proud to create music and attempt to spread a particular message. Buy the physical copy because digital is boring, haha!
Do you have any message for your listeners?
Live your life in the most serene way possible, but above all, don’t pay attention to judgments that undermine your ideas and your approach to creating or living this great thing we call music.
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well