The Black City Vinyl Records & Discography

Who is The Black City? A Brief Career Overview

Meet The Black City, an electrifying collective of musical talents based in Turin, Italy. This vibrant band, featuring the dynamic lineup of Martin Craig (Guitars & Vocals), Caldero (Drums & Vocals), Monne Bellavia (Bass & Vocals), and Alberto Gurrisi (Keys & Vocals), is known for their captivating blend of modern funk, soul, rock, and jazz. With their signature grooves and contagious rhythms, The Black City is not just a band--they are a movement that invites listeners to experience the rich roots of funk music.

Since their inception, they've captured the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide, especially with acclaimed projects like their latest EP, Sankhara, released on March 26, 2021. Their discography reflects groundbreaking achievements in the contemporary funk scene and connects deeply with vinyl culture through their high-quality releases. Collectors and fans alike treasure their work, celebrating the tangible experience that only vinyl can deliver. If you're looking for an authentic groove that makes you want to dance, then The Black City is your ultimate destination!

The Black City's Early Life and Background

Emerging from the bustling streets of Turin, The Black City embodies a fusion of cultural influences that seeped into their musical journey from day one. Each member grew up in environments enriched with diverse musical sounds and styles, reflective of Italy's vibrant heritage. Early exposure to music sparked a passion that would resonate throughout their lives. Music was not merely an interest; it was the heartbeat of their upbringing.

Through childhood experiences, the members' families would play an array of records that laid the foundation for their distinct sound. From the warm tones of vinyl crackling to the euphoric melodies that filled their homes, The Black City's connection to music was evident long before they touched instruments. These early experiences not only fostered their love for music but also their admiration for vinyl records as a unique art form.

The Musical Influences That Shaped The Black City's Sound

Their sound is an intoxicating cocktail reflecting an eclectic mix of influences from legendary artists and genres. While The Black City draws strong inspiration from funk pioneers like Parliament-Funkadelic, they also incorporate sonic elements from soul legends such as James Brown, and grooves reminiscent of jazz maestros. This melting pot of styles is evident in their music, which dances fluidly between the joy of funk and the emotive depth of jazz.

Vinyl has played a pivotal role in their musical maturation. Influential albums like Aretha Franklin's I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You and Miles Davis' Kind of Blue were staples in their collections, sparking a desire to create a sonic experience that echoes the authenticity of those vinyl masterpieces. These cherished records laid the groundwork for their creative expressions and continue to inspire their work today.

How The Black City Entered the Music Industry

Their journey into the music industry began as a labor of love, with each member honing their craft through local performances and recording sessions. Early on, The Black City took to the stage in intimate venues around Turin, where they shared their infectious energy with small audiences. These performances became a breeding ground for experimentation, as they sought to develop their signature sound by blending genres and collaborating with fellow musicians.

Through persistent dedication, The Black City began to release demos and independent projects, tantalizing the ears of vinyl enthusiasts longing for fresh funk-inspired sounds. Their 2016 debut album, What The Funk You Want?, set the stage for their future success. Each release showcased their evolution as artists and the distinct influences that shaped their musical identity. As they gained traction, the possibility of vinyl production became a central ambition, allowing them to connect with a passionate collector community devoted to the authenticity of the format.

The Black City's Breakthrough and Rise to Fame

The Black City reached new heights with the release of their standout album, Wake Up. The Funk, on May 31, 2019. This album marked a turning point in their career and solidified their presence in the music scene. The vinyl release was met with rave reviews, celebrated for its stunning production quality and vibrant artwork, making it a must-have for collectors. Tracks like "Funk It Up" and "Soulful Nights" were instant hits, propelling them onto charts and into the hearts of fans.

Following the critical acclaim and commercial success, The Black City became recognized for their ability to revitalize funk music for modern audiences. Major festivals sought them out for performances, resulting in larger tours and media features that only heightened their visibility. With each accolade, their authenticity as artists deepened, as did their connection to vinyl culture--a symbiosis of passion, artistry, and groove.

How Personal Life Shaped The Black City's Music

The Black City's music is imbued with deeply personal narratives that draw from their collective experiences. Relationships, struggles, and moments of triumph have all been woven into the tapestry of their lyrics and sounds. From the bittersweet reflections of love lost to the electrifying celebrations of life, their songs resonate with audiences as they evoke the full spectrum of human emotions. The influence of inspirational figures, community struggles, and relatable vulnerabilities shapes their artistry in profound ways.

Social activism is also a cornerstone of The Black City's identity. They actively engage in charitable projects, using their platform to champion causes close to their hearts. Such endeavors offer depth to their public persona. Moreover, any public controversies have been met with resilience, allowing them to grow and evolve as artists while remaining authentic to their fans.