SPLEEN ARE: Samuele Riccucci – Guitar and Vocals, Matteo Innocenti – Drums and Backing Vocals, Olmo Fantini – Guitar and Backing Vocals, Alberto Sanna – Bass
Spleen, a bold and spirited four-piece, has been making waves. This year, they’ve joined forces with the iconic rock label, Contempo Records, and are gearing up to unleash a tempestuous mix of music and live performances, stirring things up in true rock ‘n’ roll fashion. Late last year, they dropped their own rendition of the classic “Making Plans For Nigel,” earning them well-deserved praise. The track is a sneak peek into their much-anticipated debut album, set to drop in early 2025.
Let’s dive into the world of Spleen! We chatted with guitarist Olmo from the band…
What inspired you to cover “Making Plans for Nigel” by XTC? Is there a personal or artistic connection to the song?
Making Plans for Nigel is a timeless song with an innovative sound that still feels fresh even after all these years… The song reflects the feelings we’re experiencing quite well, and although our version is quite different from the original, it retains the original vibes.
How have your fans reacted to your version of “Making Plans for Nigel”?
We were surprised to discover that many of our young fans are familiar with the original version, and for those who didn’t know it, it became an opportunity to discover XTC.
What is the reaction to the track when you play it live?
The song has great momentum, it’s engaging, and people have fun with it.
Besides XTC, which other artists or bands have had a significant influence on your music and style?
In terms of sound, we were originally influenced by everything punk… Recently, however, we’ve been drawing inspiration from a darker, heavier sound, more oriented towards the stoner vibe of Kyuss and Sleep or grunge bands like Alice in Chains, Stone Temple Pilots, and many others.
How do each of you contribute to the creative process in the band?
Before, our songs were composed step by step, building on an original idea, but lately, it’s been happening that songs come to life on their own during rehearsals. It’s a great thing, a sign of the strong understanding and cohesion between us.
As an Italian rock band, how do you see the current state of the rock scene in Italy?
Are there any up-and-coming artists or bands that you think people should keep an eye on?
In Tuscany, where we come from, there’s a really interesting scene with a truly beautiful and well-functioning connection between artists.
Outside of music, what are some of your passions or hobbies?
Personally, I love sports, especially rugby. I’ve been playing for many years.
Can you give us a sneak peek into what’s next for Spleen? Is there an album on the way?
Spleen are experimenting with new sounds and new textures, the Spleen sound is still under construction… we’re working on an album, and we’d like it to sound like a concept album.
Where can we find you online?
FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM SPOTIFY YOUTUBE
Karen Woodham is the founder and owner of the Blazing Minds. She is also a Cinema reviewer and works with RealD 3D reviewing the latest 3D releases and IMAX, she has also had several articles published in various publications including the first edition of SFW Magazine. In 2015 she became an Award Winning Blogger and also has her website listed as one of the UK’s Top 10 Film Blogs.
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