Joseph Tagliabue is a sound engineer, selector and music producer based in Milan, Italy. He is currently a leading figure on the Italian alternative cultural scene. His meticulous musical research reflects an eclectic style characterized by an Italian attitude that is an expression of love for his land and his traditions. Tracing a musical-temporal path that comes from folk sounds mixed with contemporary electronic and experimental techniques. He draws inspiration from the environment around him and breaks down the boundaries between genres, merging his musical influences and reinterpreting his origins with a propensity for the future. He offers refined, evocative and always different, emotional interpretations, tailored to the public without ever abandoning his own musical identity.
We have had the pleasure of interviewing him, now that he publishes Un’ Altra Forma Di Vibrazioni, and this is the result.
What has been your musical training, self-taught, schooled or not?
Self-taught.
Can you remember a key moment that made you want to take music seriously?
I think it was the first time I heard a lullaby and fell asleep.
The first record that really turned you on to electronic music?
A lot of records…from different periods.. I find it difficult to say exactly what was the first one.
Instead of focusing on a specific sound, is there a key principle or philosophy that drives you as a producer?
I always prefer to do what I feel, that’s probably my key principle and my philosophy.
Where do you get your inspiration from outside of music?
Everywhere. The environment that surrounds me. Especially nature with trees, wind and birds but also the city and its noises.
What do you want to transmit with your last work?
A story that starts with Materia Visibile and ends with Filamenti Cosmici. Causing you to lose yourself in the magic of the music.
Can you tell us a little bit about the new album Un’ Altra Forma Di Vibrazioni? What inspired you so much about the cosmic web that made you record an album around the concept?
It is a concept album comprised of ten tracks whose sound design is deeply inspired by the structure of the cosmic web. The aspect which most impressed me is the inseparable connection that characterises matter, forces and elements of the web – the same concept was applied to the tracks of the album, they can only be understood by considering them as a collective whole.
What is the biggest challenge you face as a producer?
I consider myself privileged to be a producer and being able to work with music.
Have there been people or groups that have empowered you or helped you find your way as a producer?
A lot of people. I’m not only talking about people in the music business but all the persons which show you concretely love, respect and gratitude for what you’re doing.
In an overly saturated market, how would you advise someone looking to express themselves creatively in music culture?
Do what you feel like doing.
And what is your greatest source of optimism or inner strength?
Love and the beauty of Planet Earth.
What goals have you set for yourself this year?
Being able to make a strong route with my bike, which I didn’t think I would be able to do.
What is coming this year for you that excites you?
I hope many new excursions with my bike.
The last thing you shazamed?
I don’t use Shazam.
Last set that really impressed you?
I just listened to 7 hours set from Vladimir Ivkovic and Switchdance at Lux Fragil in Lisbon and I really liked it.
Last record you bought?
An obscure Italian cut from the middle 90s.
The best thing about working in music?
To travel.
The most difficult challenge of working in music?
Already answered before.
Biggest disappointment in your career? How did you get over that?
There are many things I’m disappointed with. Just don’t think about them and look ahead.
Who has been the most inspiring person you have worked with?
All the people I have worked with have given me something special, and I hope I have done the same for them.
Is there an open door for the disadvantaged?
This is a very big question, that would take days for a response. We live in a crazy world that oppresses and exploits. The only way to survive is by helping each other.
Who should we interview next?
Anyone who has something interesting to say.
