Contributing Writer
On the occasion of the release of his new EP “Ssociety”, we asked Nicola d’Angella to share with us
ten significant records that tell his story, allowing us to explore his inner world through music.
Nicola laid himself bare, offering us an authentic and profound glimpse into his soul through
the soundtracks that have shaped his life.
“I want to share with you a journey through music, a journey that begins with the beating of
my heart, the first song I ever heard. It was as if the whole world opened up before me, and
all I could feel was that melody enveloping my senses.” Nicola d’Angella
—–
Depeche Mode – Enjoy The Silence
I vividly remember that moment: I was sitting in front of the stereo, while “Enjoy the Silence”
by Depeche Mode played. Even though I was just a child, unable to fully grasp the meaning
of the lyrics, the power of that music was irresistible. I found myself immersed in that melody,
and so, without hesitation, I let myself be carried away by the notes dancing in the air.
Sono – Keep Control
It was 2012, a time when the entire Italian peninsula vibrated to the rhythm of minimal
sounds, where the streets were plastered with flyers and that hypnotic music echoed in cars.
Venues like Clorophilla, Mandarino, and Jubilee in Puglia set the tone for the habits and
customs of the people. Stepping into those venues meant embracing a sense of belonging to
a group, to a collective that shared the same passion for music and clubbing culture.
Drawn to this world, I stepped through the doors of a club for the first time and was
mesmerized by all I saw. The feeling of entering that sacred place, surrounded by
shimmering lights and music pulsating in the air, was simply indescribable. It was as if I had
been transported to another dimension, where time stood still and only the thumping bass
could resonate with my deepest chords.
At the end of the evening, as the clubbers unleashed themselves on the dance floor, the
atmosphere became charged with energy. The calls to the DJ grew louder, demanding to
play that track that would mark the peak of the night. And so, with a mix of excitement and
fervor, “Keep Control” by Sono started playing…
Green Velvet – La la land
That culture had deeply embedded itself within me, completely transporting me into its
values and ideals. My friends and I had been completely swept away by that world,
immersed in a reality where we spent entire days watching Boiler Room videos and sets by
Carl Cox and Green Velvet.
&ME – After Dark (Keinemusik – KM023)
The overwhelming love for that culture pushed me to immerse myself more and more into
the world of electronic music. I decided to take my first concrete step by purchasing my first
vinyl records. Among the various options that stood before me, there was a track that, even
before being listened to, caught my attention with its mere presence: “After Dark” by &ME.
That title promised something magical, like a journey through the depths of the starry night.
And when I finally held the vinyl in my hands, the sensation of grasping something so
tangible, something that carried with it the promise of endless sonic adventures, filled me
with excitement.
As the record spun on the turntable, letting the needle glide through the grooves, I was
transported into a completely new sonic world. The notes of “After Dark” surrounded me like
an embrace, pulling me into a whirlwind of emotions and sensations that made me feel alive
like never before.
Marco Strous – Tip Toe
A track that inspired my groove and left an indelible mark on my musical style is
undoubtedly “Tip Toe” by Marco Strous. Even today, I consider Marco Strous one of the
true pioneers of tech house music, someone who has contributed significantly to shaping the
sound we love and know today.
Marvin Gaye – I Want You
Another record that has had a significant impact in shaping my sound is undoubtedly “I Want
You” by Marvin Gaye. Despite belonging to a completely different musical genre, this record
deeply influenced my perception of music and contributed to shaping my artistic style.
“I Want You” is a soul and R&B masterpiece that exudes sensuality and passion from every
note. The track is imbued with sincere and profound emotions, conveyed by Marvin Gaye’s
unmistakable voice and the enveloping melodies that accompany each song.
Gotye – Somebody That I Used To Know (feat. Kimbra)
At least once in everyone’s life, we have all faced the classic question: “What is your favorite
song?”. My answer has always been unequivocal: “Somebody That I Used to Know” by
Gotye.
CamelPhat & Anyma – The Sign
I must be honest: when I step out of the studio, I immerse myself in a musical world
completely different from what I produce. While I’m working, my focus is on crafting my
unique style, but once I’m out of the creative environment, I let myself be carried away by
genres that inspire me in different ways.
I’m particularly passionate about funk, rap, and melodic techno music. These genres offer
me a refreshing break from the sounds I produce, allowing me to explore new rhythms,
meaningful lyrics, and melodic layers that capture my soul. The artist I listen to the most on Spotify is Anyma.
Josh Kalker, Francesco Parente – Loud (Original Mix)
The Italian minimal deep/tech and tech house artists whom i respect are numerous, but
among them, my favorites are: Shoke, Puff, White Off, Josh Kalker, and Francesco Parente.
Tiga – Mind Dimension (Ben Sterling Remix)
If I were to identify a record that represents a cornerstone in my music collection, I couldn’t
help but mention Ben Sterling’s remix of “Mind Dimension”. This track has become a true
pillar in my repertoire, a constant presence that embodies the very essence of modern electronic music.
Nicola d’Angella – Ssociety EP is out now on Raw Cutz