Feature: Monobjo Decodes ‘TAROT (Original Score)’
Can you talk about any specific themes or motifs that run throughout 'TAROT (Original Score)?’
"The concept of 'Tarot' originated about ten years ago when I began studying Tarot cards and delving into the characteristics of each major arcana. Within the framework of the Western Kabbalah system, each arcana has various correspondences, meanings, and attributions to elements, planets, zodiac signs, and Hebrew letters. It was during this period that I started imagining what sound or musical genre could best represent each arcana based on its unique characteristics. The problem arose when I realized that each Tarot card had such a strong and distinct personality that it couldn't be represented by a single musical genre. There was a risk of creating an album composed of 22 different musical genres without a coherent logical thread. The solution came when I presented the project to Elena Malisani, the choreographer of the 'HELIOPOLIS' company. If the music were to be created for a dance performance, it would have a logical direction to follow and a solid grounding that would make the album feasible. Thus, I began composing music for specific movements with the aim of creating a multisensory project that represented the entire journey of the major arcana.”
How did you work with the producer or engineers to bring your vision for this album to life?
"For the reasons I mentioned earlier, I preferred to produce it myself. There were too many variables to consider for each Tarot card, and it would have been impossible to explain them all to an external producer. I had spent years studying each individual card. Additionally, I had recently had my first experience as an artistic producer for a very interesting rock group, 'NO SENSE VIOLENCE', so I decided to self-produce. There are excellent examples of artists who produce their own works: the latest that comes to mind is CRONAUER, who produced a fantastic album. I cannot fail to mention what I consider the best Italian music producer: RICCARDO SINIGALLIA. I consider him a genius in his field and hope to collaborate with him on his album one day.”
Which masterpieces from the album do you think best represents your artistic vision?
"There are 22 tracks, each very different from the others. While in the past I predominantly composed classical music for soundtracks, in this album I've explored a wide musical spectrum, ranging from Jazz to electronic music, and even delving into techno, before concluding with symphonic music. My artistic vision is reflected in the central theme of the album, which aims to capture the unique energy of each major arcana card.”
Every composer has a unique style. How would you describe your musical "voice" or signature style? What sets your compositions apart?
"Before this album, I would have been able to answer this question more precisely. Now that I've become more open to experimentation and flexible in my musical approach, I find it difficult to define a single style that represents me. However, I can tell you that what distinguishes my compositions is a particular type of harmony and melody that I continuously strive to perfect.”
Do you have a personal favorite among your compositions? What makes this piece special to you?
"I believe that the final track of ‘TAROT’ is among the most beautiful pieces I have ever composed. The transition from experimental electronic sounds to the final symphony, and their coexistence in ‘ATU 21 The Universe,’ fills me with great pride."
