| The Magic Tombolinos | |
|---|---|
Alejandro Toledo listens to playback in the recording studio (2011). |
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| Background information | |
| Origin | London, England, UK |
| Genres | Balkan/Gyspy Indie music World Electronica |
| Years active | 2008-present |
| Labels | Robotech Records/ Inclusionism Records |
| Website | www.magictombolinos.co.uk |
| Members | |
| Alejandro Toledo, Nuno Brito, Maurizio Pala, Davide Lufrano-Chavez, Michele Montolli | |
The Magic Tombolinos are a multicultural 5-piece band based in London, UK.[1][2] Its current line-up is Alejandro Toledo (Sax, Vocals), Nuno Brito (Drums), Maurizio Pala (Accordion), Davide Lufrano-Chavez (Guitar), and Michele Montolli (Double Bass). They are known for their energetic and extravagant performances and their fusion of music genres. The music combines elements of Balkan folk with Western mainstream music, fusing classical music and rock culture, punk and other world music styles.
In 2010, the band was selected by the Fiat Evo Music Rooms competition[3] as one of the current top unsigned bands in the UK, beating 3,000 other bands.[4] They then went on to make a live appearance on Channel 4's Evo Music Rooms programme hosted by Edith Bowman along with bands Faithless and Audio Bullys.[5]
In December 2011 the band appeared on the Rob Brydon Show's Christmas Special (BBC2) alongside guests such as Noel Fielding (who was very complimentary of Alejandro's dress sense), Sarah Harding, Rhys Darby (who danced enthusiastically to the band's music) & Angelos Epithemiou. To coincide with this appearance the band released a resequenced, remastered and remixed version of their debut album Full Attack, With Sudden Defenses.
On December 31st 2011, The Magic Tombolinos released the single '2012'. The lyrics of the song are a pastiche of news articles from the year 2011 and are built up to create a sense of unease at the year ahead, as well as to express the feeling of being tied to the consequences of decisions made by other, more powerful forces. Topics mentioned include the banking crisis, the disaster at the Fukushima nuclear plant in Japan, the predicted collapse of the Eurozone, and the London Olympics in 2012. The accompanying music video, directed by Tom Allan and Nic Watkins, employs the familiar analogy of being tied to the train tracks by a faceless 'suit', whilst being unable to move as a train hurtles towards the band.
Contents |
The Magic Tombolinos were formed in London, in 2008, by the classically-trained saxophonist and composer Alejandro Toledo (originally from Cordoba, Argentina). The music of the band is heavily influenced by the UK indie rock scene, as well as Eastern European Roma and traditional music. The band brings all these influences to bear in their compositions. This musical wanderlust is further enforced by the diverse, international backgrounds of the members of the group, both past and present.
The band has toured tirelessly throughout Europe, making appearances at numerous international festivals. They are often lauded for their intense and energetic performances.
In an interview with fRoots magazine, frontman Alejandro Toledo cites 21st century music among the band's main musical spectrum. The Magic Tombolinos has mentioned Manu Chao, Fanfare Ciocarlia, The Prodigy and Astor Piazzolla as influences as well. [6]
The band's sound is characterized by lively and energetic rhythms; with virtuosic melodic passages, as well as a certain informality in their approach which allows the audience to get involved and feel close to their music.
"I love these guys... great energy" - Maxi Jazz, Faithless
"They don't do upbeat, they do nuclear!" - Rob Brydon
"Catch them live, and bring your dancing shoes" - Songlines Magazine
"Bursting with a contagious happiness" - fRoots
"They pick up the vibe by the scruff of its neck" - Venue Magazine
"They leave audiences breathless" - Gondwana Sound
The Magic Tombolinos Festival appearances have included: