ELECTROTRENTINO
A journey to discover contemporary electronic music in Trentino
In this documentary about contemporary electronic music in Trentino, four Trentino musicians - Fire Saga, Alba Leng, Iaga, and Spankox - perform at eight culturally and historically significant locations throughout the Trentino region, bridging the gap between the past and present, nature and technology, and local and global culture.
Through their performances, in which they exclusively play music composed and produced by themselves, the musicians showcase the wide range of sounds and styles that Trentino's electronic music scene has to offer, creating an innovative promotional showcase for the region through the lens of music.
Additionally, the documentary highlights the importance of valuing the unique qualities of the region and its local culture in promoting contemporary electronic music.
The outdoor locations chosen for the performances offer a unique and breathtaking backdrop for the music, creating an immersive experience for the audience.
Finally, the documentary demonstrates how contemporary electronic music has become an important vehicle for promoting culture and art in Trentino, creating opportunities for local artists to gain national and international recognition.
In summary, this documentary represents a valuable resource for anyone interested in discovering the vibrant and creative scene of contemporary electronic music in Trentino, showcasing the beauty of the region and the passion of the artists who inhabit it.
We are at Fort Dosso delle Somme, located in Alpe Cimbra, near Serrada in Trentino, at an altitude of 1,670 meters above sea level. Built between 1911 and 1914, it belonged to the large Austrian fortification system on the Italian border. It was the largest on the entire front and the most technologically advanced. From this fort on May 15, 1916, the preparatory artillery fire of the so-called "Strafexpedition" was launched.
This historic location has been chosen for the performance of Fire Saga, a composer, producer, and DJ from Trentino. Fire Saga's music takes and transforms the sounds of 1980s electronic dance music, combining them with sophisticated modern melodies. His elegant and refined tracks have a great international appeal. In fact, Spotify has already selected three of his tracks, "Close", "Why", and "Under the Sun", for its official editorial playlist "New Music Friday Iceland". Fire Saga has so far released twenty-six original tracks, and the one we are listening to now is called "Ready".
Electronic music is an art form that expresses itself through synthesized sounds and pulsing rhythms, creating a unique atmosphere that transports the audience into a sonic world of emotions and sensations.
In Trentino, a new generation of artists is emerging with their innovative electronic music, which combines tradition and modernity, local culture and international influences.
Through their music, these artists promote Trentino, bringing out its cultural and territorial identity and inviting the audience to discover the hidden beauties of this land.
This documentary will take you on a journey through Trentino's electronic music, composed and produced by the artists of the local music scene, and the beauty and diversity of Trentino.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a unique sonic world, to discover the places and people who make it possible, and to appreciate the beauty of contemporary electronic music from Trentino.
From Fort Dosso delle Somme we now move to Beseno castle, for the second performance in this documentary, featuring the Trentino-born composer, DJ, singer, and producer Alba Leng.
Beseno castle is a medieval castle dating back to the twelfth century and is the largest fortified structure in Trentino-Alto Adige. Located in the municipality of Besenello, in Trentino, in the late eighteenth century, it was the scene of a bloody siege by Napoleon's troops, who were however defeated by the Austrian forces. Currently, it is one of the locations of the museum complex of the Provincial Museum of the Buonconsiglio Castle.
Alba Leng is 22 years old and started producing and playing electronic music in clubs and festivals when she was only 13 years old, and has since continued to develop her unique style.
Her music is characterized by a mix of electronic sounds and complex melodies, which create an intense and engaging atmosphere. She is known for her energetic and engaging sets, making her one of the most loved DJs in the Italian electronic music scene.
Over the years, Alba Leng has played at numerous electronic music festivals throughout Europe, collaborating with other artists and producers. In 2022, she signed a prestigious contract with the famous English record label ToolRoom Records. This label, owned by the renowned English DJ Mark Knight, has released her single titled "Why Do I" worldwide, which has been highly praised by critics and audiences alike.
The single was also included in the compilation "Leaders Of The New School"
Electronic music plays an important role in the cultural and territorial promotion of Trentino, as it represents a means of expressing the modernity and contemporaneity of the province. Thanks to its artists, Trentino can showcase its cultural heritage to the world through an innovative lens, capable of attracting an increasingly wide and diverse audience.
For the third location of this documentary, featuring Spankox, we will be moving to a former military base.
We are at Base Tuono, located in the municipality of Folgaria, in Trentino, not far from the border with Veneto, at an altitude of 1543 meters. Base Tuono was a missile base of the Italian Air Force and NATO, active from 1966 to 1978.
Its function was to counter potential high-altitude air attacks by Warsaw Pact countries. The weapon system was based on the Nike-Hercules missile, a surface-to-air missile armed with conventional and nuclear warheads. Three of these missiles are now displayed on the launch pads.
Spankox, stage name of Agostino Carollo, is a Trentino composer, DJ, and music producer, born in Rovereto, where he attended the local music school. He is best known for his dance and house music. He began his musical career in the early 1990s, producing dance music tracks under various pseudonyms, released by various independent record labels.
In 1998, he signed a contract with EMI, the record label of the Beatles. EMI released his first album, under the pseudonym Extreme, titled "The Love Album." This album achieved great international success, especially in Japan. From this album, EMI also extracted the first big Italian and European hit song: LovSong.
In 2000, with the song “Fly Away Bye Bye”, entirely written, sung, and produced by him, released under the pseudonym Eyes Cream, he reached the top spot on the Billboard Dance chart in the United States, ahead of big artists such as Madonna, Eurythmics, and Whitney Houston.
Spankox once again attracted the attention of the entire dance electronic music world in 2004 when London's Ministry Of Sound released his song "To The Club." This track quickly became a true international clubbing anthem, still played by the most famous DJs today.
In 2008, Spankox collaborated with Sony and Elvis Presley's family, creating a series of remixes of the King of Rock'n'Roll's most famous songs, creating innovative versions that maintain the essence of the original sound but with a modern touch. Among these songs is the single "Baby Let's Play House," which in the new remix version by Spankox became a worldwide hit.
In the following years, Spankox continued to produce electronic music and perform as a DJ all over the world. He has played at numerous festivals and clubs in Europe, Asia, and America, consolidating his reputation as one of the most innovative and creative DJs, composers, and producers in the Italian and international electronic music scene.
The electronic music you are listening to is played live by Spankox: with his electronic instruments and console, he launches and transforms percussion and instrumental loops, creates real-time arrangements, adds effects and melodies, following the inspiration of the moment. He creates, in short, a brand new and original soundtrack, inspired by the specific location where he performs, and always different.
One of the goals of this documentary is to highlight the connection between the Trentino electronic music scene and the territory, showing how music is a means through which Trentino artists can express their relationship with the surrounding environment and its peculiarities.
It also aims to offer the opportunity to discover the music of these artists while simultaneously appreciating the beauty of the Trentino landscape and the history of the territory.
And here we are at Fort Garda, for the fourth screening of this documentary, featuring Iaga.
Built between 1904 and 1907, Fort Garda is an Austro-Hungarian military fortress located in Riva del Garda, in Trentino. It is characterized by its modern construction concept, which makes extensive use of concrete and steel beams, absence of decorative elements, and a significant armament. The structure was meant to defend the entire Alto Garda system. The fort was camouflaged and adhered to the terrain, with the front part facing the lake being lower than the rear part where the entrance was located. An armored dome served as an observatory on the fort's vault, while a long gallery started from the moat, with observation points overlooking Mount Brione. The garrison of Fort Garda was about 200 men.
Iaga is a DJ, composer, and music producer born in Trento.
Her music style is characterized by the fusion of elements from house, deep house, techno, and ambient, creating a unique and innovative sound that sets her apart from most artists on the Italian scene.
She started her musical career very young, playing with various bands and gradually gaining fame thanks to her original music and engaging performances.
She made her solo debut in the electronic music scene in 2017, releasing her first single entitled "Alright" and playing in various clubs and festivals in Italy and abroad.
In 2019, she released her second single entitled "It Ain’t Right", which received excellent reviews from specialized critics.
In 2021, her third single entitled "Yours" was released worldwide, and in 2022 she circulated various bootlegs and mashups of her own production.
IAGA is a talented and original DJ and producer with a great passion for electronic music and a strong focus on sound experimentation. Her music style is characterized by the search for innovative sounds and the use of analog instruments. She is currently working on her first album, but continues to work on new musical projects and bring her music around the world, representing one of the most interesting and innovative voices on the Italian electronic scene.
Since the beginning of our century, contemporary electronic music has seen an exponential growth worldwide, but often the contribution that territories and local communities have made to this cultural phenomenon is underestimated. In particular, Trentino has become in recent years a forge of new talents and innovative experiences, a place where electronic music merges with local traditions and culture, giving rise to a unique and original sound.
For the fifth exhibition of this documentary about electronic music in Trentino, we move from Fort Garda to Valle di Non, specifically to Nanno castle, where we find Alba Leng.
Nanno castle is located in the municipality of Ville d'Anaunia, in Trentino, in the homonymous town. It dates back to the medieval era, specifically to 1264. It has a particular shape, with a central turret and four watchtowers. During the 16th century, it was transformed in the style of a Venetian Tuscan Renaissance villa. Among the legends set in the castle, there is the love story of Melisenda and Ludovico. It is said that every year, every night in May, the weeping and lamentations of the two lovers echo as a reminder of this story with an unsettling ending. Today the castle has been restored and is privately owned. It is also accessible to the public with guided tours.
Today Nanno castle serves as a backdrop for the special musical performance of the young composer, DJ, and producer from Trentino, Alba Leng. Contemporary Trentino artists contribute to promoting the territory of Trentino through their music in various ways.
For example, Alba Leng often integrates elements of local culture into her music, using traditional instruments or sampling sounds of nature and the Trentino landscape. In this way, music becomes an effective means of enhancing and spreading the culture and beauty of Trentino internationally.
The history of electronic music in Trentino has ancient roots, dating back to the 1980s when the local music scene began to take an interest in synthetic sounds and new technologies applied to music production.
In the 1990s, the Trentino electronic scene began to become increasingly active and rich in artists who devoted themselves to producing dance, techno, house, and jungle music. Electronic instruments that allowed for previously unheard-of things began to appear on the market: synthesizers, samplers, electronic drums, and computers revolutionized the sound of an entire generation.
In the following years, the Trentino electronic scene evolved and diversified, giving birth to new genres and subgenres such as dubstep, techno, minimal, and tech house.
The Trentino electronic music scene is constantly growing. The protagonists of this documentary, Alba Leng, Spankox, Iaga, and Fire Saga, demonstrate that electronic music in Trentino seems to have a very promising future.
Electronic music can be seen as a bridge between generations because it mainly uses electronic instruments and advanced technologies. This feature makes electronic music more accessible and easily understandable for younger generations who have grown up in an era where digital technology is an integral part of their daily lives. However, electronic music is also able to speak to older generations who have experienced the evolution of music technology and who can appreciate the technological innovation that underpins the creation of this type of music.
Electronic music is also a universal language because it does not depend on specific words or languages. This means that electronic music can be appreciated and understood by people from any part of the world, regardless of their mother tongue or cultural background. Electronic music is able to connect people through the energy and emotion that it transmits, without the need for complex words or explanations.
The sixth performance of this documentary takes place in Drena castle, where we find the Trentino composer, producer, and DJ Fire Saga.
Drena castle is located in the homonymous municipality, not far from Arco, in Trentino. The castle's origins date back to the twelfth century when it was erected to guard and control traffic along the Sarca River. Because of its strategic location, it was long contested by local lords until the d'Arco family prevailed over the others.
The history of Drena castle abruptly ended in 1703 when the castle was destroyed by French army troops. Today, the castle is the site of an archaeological museum. It is also possible to climb to the top of the 25-meter tower, which offers a spectacular view of the Sarca valley.
Fire Saga's musical style is characterized by the use of electronic sounds and driving percussion, which create an atmosphere of energy and adrenaline. This sets it apart from most DJs and producers on the Italian and international scene.
The inclusion of Fire Saga's tracks in Spotify's editorial playlists dedicated to new and trending music has helped to introduce their music to an international audience, and is also an important recognition of their talent and ability to create impactful and original music.
Electronic music has a great capacity for evolution and adaptation, making it even more attractive to different generations and cultures. The technologies used in electronic music production are constantly evolving, allowing musicians to experiment with new sounds and create ever-new sonorities.
Electronic music is often associated with the energy and power of its sounds. This type of music is known for its ability to convey a wide range of emotions and sensations, thanks to the combination of different forms of sound, rhythm, and melody.
In particular, electronic music stands out for its strong presence of bass and percussion, which can create a physical impact on the listener's body and increase their energy and motivation. Furthermore, the repetitiveness of some rhythmic or melodic sequences can generate a trance or meditative state that leads the listener to focus more on the sensations that the music conveys to them.
Various Trentino local organizations are working to develop new opportunities and create increasingly innovative electronic music events to attract a broader and more diverse audience. Additionally, the presence of a community of talented and dedicated artists ensures that the Trentino electronic music scene remains vibrant and innovative even in the future.
The seventh part of this documentary takes place at Fort Sommo Alto, where we find Alba Leng.
Fort Sommo Alto is one of the seven large Austro-Hungarian fortresses, located between Cima Vézzena and the Serrada peaks in Trentino, which bear witness to the battles on the Trentino-Veneto front during the Great War. Built on the eponymous height, at an altitude of 1613 meters, between the years 1911 and 1914, its main function was to connect the Dosso delle Somme and Chèrle forts. Lacking a moat but protected by an embankment, it controlled the underlying Orsar valley, and with the nearby Fort Dosso delle Somme, the Passo Coe pass.
The English record label Toolroom Records has always been a reference point for many electronic music artists and producers. The way Toolroom views and conceives music has revolutionized the music industry. For many DJs and producers, having a track on Toolroom is a dream, and from this point of view, the artistic directors of this label have always been very careful in selecting tracks to publish.
To search for new artists to launch, in recent years Toolroom Records has thought of creating a series of compilations called "Leaders Of The New School."
Alba Leng's track "Why Do I" was included in Volume 2 of this prestigious compilation, released in September 2022, which contains a total of 10 tracks, all carefully crafted and linked to the House and Tech House genres. The compilation is available in all major stores, and Alba Leng is the only Italian artist to be part of it. This is an important recognition of the talent of this young artist and her ability to create original, engaging, and high-quality electronic music.
Alba Leng's electronic music is also characterized by a strong attention to the culture and nature of the territory, promoting its valorization and safeguarding through creativity and musical innovation. The artist always uses renewable energy sources whenever possible and promotes the adoption of environmentally respectful behaviors.
Electronic music can also be used as a tool to improve mood and motivation, especially in sports or during physical activity. In fact, many electronic music playlists have been created specifically to accompany physical exercise, thanks to their ability to increase the athlete's energy and concentration.
For the eighth and final performance of this documentary, we move to Lake Molveno, in the territory of the homonymous municipality, in Trentino, where we find the composer, DJ, and producer, Spankox, waiting for us.
Lake Molveno is a natural alpine lake, formed about 4,000 years ago as a result of a massive landslide. The poet Antonio Fogazzaro defined it as a "precious pearl, in an even more precious casket." Much of the lake's charm comes from the natural mountain setting that surrounds it. To the west rises the central chain of the Brenta Group; to the southeast, the massif of Mount Gazza and Paganella. Several Napoleonic fortresses can be found around Lake Molveno, and there is a waterfall near the "Roman Bridge" that flows directly into the lake.
Today, many artists seek to create connections between electronic music, the environment, and nature. Spankox has been one of the most daring to move between these three dimensions, experimenting with innovative technologies to create a real-time, sound experience inspired by the surrounding environment with his electronic instruments, promoting an attitude of respect and care for nature.
As in the previous performance at Base Tuono, here at Lake Molveno the electronic music you are listening to is played live by Spankox using a particular technique he has perfected himself. It is based on "stems," sound elements that the artist overlays and transforms with new arrangements, adding effects and melodies, following the inspiration of the moment. What you are listening to is an original and unique soundtrack, inspired by the specific location where the artist is performing, created in real time.
This documentary on contemporary electronic music in Trentino has revealed to us a world rich in sound, energy, and creativity. Thanks to the performances of some of the protagonists of the Trentino electronic scene, we have learned how electronic music can be a universal language, capable of connecting people from different cultures and generations.
We have also discovered that electronic music is not just a musical genre, but a complete sensory experience, capable of transmitting emotions and sensations in a unique and engaging way.
Thanks to advanced technology used in its production, electronic music is able to constantly evolve, offering new sounds and new forms of expression.
This documentary has also highlighted the important role that the Trentino electronic scene is playing nationally and internationally, thanks to its liveliness and creativity. Trentino artists have managed to create a unique musical identity that merges with the historical and cultural roots of the territory, while also being open to external influences.
Contemporary electronic music in Trentino is a vibrant and constantly evolving musical universe, worthy of exploration and discovery. This musical genre represents a form of artistic and cultural expression of great value, capable of creating connections and transmitting emotions on a universal level.
"Electrify your emotions with electronic music, where sound waves become pure energy and the rhythm makes you vibrate inside."
(Fire Saga)
"Electronic music is like a journey through creativity, where notes become colors and sounds turn into emotions."
(Alba Leng)
"Electronic music is the art of creating and shaping sound to generate a unique sensory experience, where the past, present, and future merge into a cosmic symphony."
(IAGA)
"Electronic music is a bridge that connects technology with emotion, where sound synthesis becomes a work of art that can touch the soul and make the body dance."
(Spankox)
A journey to discover contemporary electronic music in Trentino
In this documentary about contemporary electronic music in Trentino, four Trentino musicians - Fire Saga, Alba Leng, Iaga, and Spankox - perform at eight culturally and historically significant locations throughout the Trentino region, bridging the gap between the past and present, nature and technology, and local and global culture.
Through their performances, in which they exclusively play music composed and produced by themselves, the musicians showcase the wide range of sounds and styles that Trentino's electronic music scene has to offer, creating an innovative promotional showcase for the region through the lens of music.
Additionally, the documentary highlights the importance of valuing the unique qualities of the region and its local culture in promoting contemporary electronic music.
The outdoor locations chosen for the performances offer a unique and breathtaking backdrop for the music, creating an immersive experience for the audience.
Finally, the documentary demonstrates how contemporary electronic music has become an important vehicle for promoting culture and art in Trentino, creating opportunities for local artists to gain national and international recognition.
In summary, this documentary represents a valuable resource for anyone interested in discovering the vibrant and creative scene of contemporary electronic music in Trentino, showcasing the beauty of the region and the passion of the artists who inhabit it.
- FIRE SAGA – DOSSO DELLE SOMME
We are at Fort Dosso delle Somme, located in Alpe Cimbra, near Serrada in Trentino, at an altitude of 1,670 meters above sea level. Built between 1911 and 1914, it belonged to the large Austrian fortification system on the Italian border. It was the largest on the entire front and the most technologically advanced. From this fort on May 15, 1916, the preparatory artillery fire of the so-called "Strafexpedition" was launched.
This historic location has been chosen for the performance of Fire Saga, a composer, producer, and DJ from Trentino. Fire Saga's music takes and transforms the sounds of 1980s electronic dance music, combining them with sophisticated modern melodies. His elegant and refined tracks have a great international appeal. In fact, Spotify has already selected three of his tracks, "Close", "Why", and "Under the Sun", for its official editorial playlist "New Music Friday Iceland". Fire Saga has so far released twenty-six original tracks, and the one we are listening to now is called "Ready".
Electronic music is an art form that expresses itself through synthesized sounds and pulsing rhythms, creating a unique atmosphere that transports the audience into a sonic world of emotions and sensations.
In Trentino, a new generation of artists is emerging with their innovative electronic music, which combines tradition and modernity, local culture and international influences.
Through their music, these artists promote Trentino, bringing out its cultural and territorial identity and inviting the audience to discover the hidden beauties of this land.
This documentary will take you on a journey through Trentino's electronic music, composed and produced by the artists of the local music scene, and the beauty and diversity of Trentino.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a unique sonic world, to discover the places and people who make it possible, and to appreciate the beauty of contemporary electronic music from Trentino.
- ALBA LENG – FORTE DOSSO DELLE SOMME
From Fort Dosso delle Somme we now move to Beseno castle, for the second performance in this documentary, featuring the Trentino-born composer, DJ, singer, and producer Alba Leng.
Beseno castle is a medieval castle dating back to the twelfth century and is the largest fortified structure in Trentino-Alto Adige. Located in the municipality of Besenello, in Trentino, in the late eighteenth century, it was the scene of a bloody siege by Napoleon's troops, who were however defeated by the Austrian forces. Currently, it is one of the locations of the museum complex of the Provincial Museum of the Buonconsiglio Castle.
Alba Leng is 22 years old and started producing and playing electronic music in clubs and festivals when she was only 13 years old, and has since continued to develop her unique style.
Her music is characterized by a mix of electronic sounds and complex melodies, which create an intense and engaging atmosphere. She is known for her energetic and engaging sets, making her one of the most loved DJs in the Italian electronic music scene.
Over the years, Alba Leng has played at numerous electronic music festivals throughout Europe, collaborating with other artists and producers. In 2022, she signed a prestigious contract with the famous English record label ToolRoom Records. This label, owned by the renowned English DJ Mark Knight, has released her single titled "Why Do I" worldwide, which has been highly praised by critics and audiences alike.
The single was also included in the compilation "Leaders Of The New School"
Electronic music plays an important role in the cultural and territorial promotion of Trentino, as it represents a means of expressing the modernity and contemporaneity of the province. Thanks to its artists, Trentino can showcase its cultural heritage to the world through an innovative lens, capable of attracting an increasingly wide and diverse audience.
- SPANKOX – BASE TUONO
For the third location of this documentary, featuring Spankox, we will be moving to a former military base.
We are at Base Tuono, located in the municipality of Folgaria, in Trentino, not far from the border with Veneto, at an altitude of 1543 meters. Base Tuono was a missile base of the Italian Air Force and NATO, active from 1966 to 1978.
Its function was to counter potential high-altitude air attacks by Warsaw Pact countries. The weapon system was based on the Nike-Hercules missile, a surface-to-air missile armed with conventional and nuclear warheads. Three of these missiles are now displayed on the launch pads.
Spankox, stage name of Agostino Carollo, is a Trentino composer, DJ, and music producer, born in Rovereto, where he attended the local music school. He is best known for his dance and house music. He began his musical career in the early 1990s, producing dance music tracks under various pseudonyms, released by various independent record labels.
In 1998, he signed a contract with EMI, the record label of the Beatles. EMI released his first album, under the pseudonym Extreme, titled "The Love Album." This album achieved great international success, especially in Japan. From this album, EMI also extracted the first big Italian and European hit song: LovSong.
In 2000, with the song “Fly Away Bye Bye”, entirely written, sung, and produced by him, released under the pseudonym Eyes Cream, he reached the top spot on the Billboard Dance chart in the United States, ahead of big artists such as Madonna, Eurythmics, and Whitney Houston.
Spankox once again attracted the attention of the entire dance electronic music world in 2004 when London's Ministry Of Sound released his song "To The Club." This track quickly became a true international clubbing anthem, still played by the most famous DJs today.
In 2008, Spankox collaborated with Sony and Elvis Presley's family, creating a series of remixes of the King of Rock'n'Roll's most famous songs, creating innovative versions that maintain the essence of the original sound but with a modern touch. Among these songs is the single "Baby Let's Play House," which in the new remix version by Spankox became a worldwide hit.
In the following years, Spankox continued to produce electronic music and perform as a DJ all over the world. He has played at numerous festivals and clubs in Europe, Asia, and America, consolidating his reputation as one of the most innovative and creative DJs, composers, and producers in the Italian and international electronic music scene.
The electronic music you are listening to is played live by Spankox: with his electronic instruments and console, he launches and transforms percussion and instrumental loops, creates real-time arrangements, adds effects and melodies, following the inspiration of the moment. He creates, in short, a brand new and original soundtrack, inspired by the specific location where he performs, and always different.
One of the goals of this documentary is to highlight the connection between the Trentino electronic music scene and the territory, showing how music is a means through which Trentino artists can express their relationship with the surrounding environment and its peculiarities.
It also aims to offer the opportunity to discover the music of these artists while simultaneously appreciating the beauty of the Trentino landscape and the history of the territory.
- IAGA – FORTE GARDA
And here we are at Fort Garda, for the fourth screening of this documentary, featuring Iaga.
Built between 1904 and 1907, Fort Garda is an Austro-Hungarian military fortress located in Riva del Garda, in Trentino. It is characterized by its modern construction concept, which makes extensive use of concrete and steel beams, absence of decorative elements, and a significant armament. The structure was meant to defend the entire Alto Garda system. The fort was camouflaged and adhered to the terrain, with the front part facing the lake being lower than the rear part where the entrance was located. An armored dome served as an observatory on the fort's vault, while a long gallery started from the moat, with observation points overlooking Mount Brione. The garrison of Fort Garda was about 200 men.
Iaga is a DJ, composer, and music producer born in Trento.
Her music style is characterized by the fusion of elements from house, deep house, techno, and ambient, creating a unique and innovative sound that sets her apart from most artists on the Italian scene.
She started her musical career very young, playing with various bands and gradually gaining fame thanks to her original music and engaging performances.
She made her solo debut in the electronic music scene in 2017, releasing her first single entitled "Alright" and playing in various clubs and festivals in Italy and abroad.
In 2019, she released her second single entitled "It Ain’t Right", which received excellent reviews from specialized critics.
In 2021, her third single entitled "Yours" was released worldwide, and in 2022 she circulated various bootlegs and mashups of her own production.
IAGA is a talented and original DJ and producer with a great passion for electronic music and a strong focus on sound experimentation. Her music style is characterized by the search for innovative sounds and the use of analog instruments. She is currently working on her first album, but continues to work on new musical projects and bring her music around the world, representing one of the most interesting and innovative voices on the Italian electronic scene.
Since the beginning of our century, contemporary electronic music has seen an exponential growth worldwide, but often the contribution that territories and local communities have made to this cultural phenomenon is underestimated. In particular, Trentino has become in recent years a forge of new talents and innovative experiences, a place where electronic music merges with local traditions and culture, giving rise to a unique and original sound.
- ALBA LENG – CASTEL NANNO
For the fifth exhibition of this documentary about electronic music in Trentino, we move from Fort Garda to Valle di Non, specifically to Nanno castle, where we find Alba Leng.
Nanno castle is located in the municipality of Ville d'Anaunia, in Trentino, in the homonymous town. It dates back to the medieval era, specifically to 1264. It has a particular shape, with a central turret and four watchtowers. During the 16th century, it was transformed in the style of a Venetian Tuscan Renaissance villa. Among the legends set in the castle, there is the love story of Melisenda and Ludovico. It is said that every year, every night in May, the weeping and lamentations of the two lovers echo as a reminder of this story with an unsettling ending. Today the castle has been restored and is privately owned. It is also accessible to the public with guided tours.
Today Nanno castle serves as a backdrop for the special musical performance of the young composer, DJ, and producer from Trentino, Alba Leng. Contemporary Trentino artists contribute to promoting the territory of Trentino through their music in various ways.
For example, Alba Leng often integrates elements of local culture into her music, using traditional instruments or sampling sounds of nature and the Trentino landscape. In this way, music becomes an effective means of enhancing and spreading the culture and beauty of Trentino internationally.
The history of electronic music in Trentino has ancient roots, dating back to the 1980s when the local music scene began to take an interest in synthetic sounds and new technologies applied to music production.
In the 1990s, the Trentino electronic scene began to become increasingly active and rich in artists who devoted themselves to producing dance, techno, house, and jungle music. Electronic instruments that allowed for previously unheard-of things began to appear on the market: synthesizers, samplers, electronic drums, and computers revolutionized the sound of an entire generation.
In the following years, the Trentino electronic scene evolved and diversified, giving birth to new genres and subgenres such as dubstep, techno, minimal, and tech house.
The Trentino electronic music scene is constantly growing. The protagonists of this documentary, Alba Leng, Spankox, Iaga, and Fire Saga, demonstrate that electronic music in Trentino seems to have a very promising future.
Electronic music can be seen as a bridge between generations because it mainly uses electronic instruments and advanced technologies. This feature makes electronic music more accessible and easily understandable for younger generations who have grown up in an era where digital technology is an integral part of their daily lives. However, electronic music is also able to speak to older generations who have experienced the evolution of music technology and who can appreciate the technological innovation that underpins the creation of this type of music.
Electronic music is also a universal language because it does not depend on specific words or languages. This means that electronic music can be appreciated and understood by people from any part of the world, regardless of their mother tongue or cultural background. Electronic music is able to connect people through the energy and emotion that it transmits, without the need for complex words or explanations.
- FIRE SAGA – CASTEL DRENA
The sixth performance of this documentary takes place in Drena castle, where we find the Trentino composer, producer, and DJ Fire Saga.
Drena castle is located in the homonymous municipality, not far from Arco, in Trentino. The castle's origins date back to the twelfth century when it was erected to guard and control traffic along the Sarca River. Because of its strategic location, it was long contested by local lords until the d'Arco family prevailed over the others.
The history of Drena castle abruptly ended in 1703 when the castle was destroyed by French army troops. Today, the castle is the site of an archaeological museum. It is also possible to climb to the top of the 25-meter tower, which offers a spectacular view of the Sarca valley.
Fire Saga's musical style is characterized by the use of electronic sounds and driving percussion, which create an atmosphere of energy and adrenaline. This sets it apart from most DJs and producers on the Italian and international scene.
The inclusion of Fire Saga's tracks in Spotify's editorial playlists dedicated to new and trending music has helped to introduce their music to an international audience, and is also an important recognition of their talent and ability to create impactful and original music.
Electronic music has a great capacity for evolution and adaptation, making it even more attractive to different generations and cultures. The technologies used in electronic music production are constantly evolving, allowing musicians to experiment with new sounds and create ever-new sonorities.
Electronic music is often associated with the energy and power of its sounds. This type of music is known for its ability to convey a wide range of emotions and sensations, thanks to the combination of different forms of sound, rhythm, and melody.
In particular, electronic music stands out for its strong presence of bass and percussion, which can create a physical impact on the listener's body and increase their energy and motivation. Furthermore, the repetitiveness of some rhythmic or melodic sequences can generate a trance or meditative state that leads the listener to focus more on the sensations that the music conveys to them.
Various Trentino local organizations are working to develop new opportunities and create increasingly innovative electronic music events to attract a broader and more diverse audience. Additionally, the presence of a community of talented and dedicated artists ensures that the Trentino electronic music scene remains vibrant and innovative even in the future.
- ALBA LENG – FORTE SOMMO ALTO
The seventh part of this documentary takes place at Fort Sommo Alto, where we find Alba Leng.
Fort Sommo Alto is one of the seven large Austro-Hungarian fortresses, located between Cima Vézzena and the Serrada peaks in Trentino, which bear witness to the battles on the Trentino-Veneto front during the Great War. Built on the eponymous height, at an altitude of 1613 meters, between the years 1911 and 1914, its main function was to connect the Dosso delle Somme and Chèrle forts. Lacking a moat but protected by an embankment, it controlled the underlying Orsar valley, and with the nearby Fort Dosso delle Somme, the Passo Coe pass.
The English record label Toolroom Records has always been a reference point for many electronic music artists and producers. The way Toolroom views and conceives music has revolutionized the music industry. For many DJs and producers, having a track on Toolroom is a dream, and from this point of view, the artistic directors of this label have always been very careful in selecting tracks to publish.
To search for new artists to launch, in recent years Toolroom Records has thought of creating a series of compilations called "Leaders Of The New School."
Alba Leng's track "Why Do I" was included in Volume 2 of this prestigious compilation, released in September 2022, which contains a total of 10 tracks, all carefully crafted and linked to the House and Tech House genres. The compilation is available in all major stores, and Alba Leng is the only Italian artist to be part of it. This is an important recognition of the talent of this young artist and her ability to create original, engaging, and high-quality electronic music.
Alba Leng's electronic music is also characterized by a strong attention to the culture and nature of the territory, promoting its valorization and safeguarding through creativity and musical innovation. The artist always uses renewable energy sources whenever possible and promotes the adoption of environmentally respectful behaviors.
Electronic music can also be used as a tool to improve mood and motivation, especially in sports or during physical activity. In fact, many electronic music playlists have been created specifically to accompany physical exercise, thanks to their ability to increase the athlete's energy and concentration.
- SPANKOX – LAGO DI MOLVENO
For the eighth and final performance of this documentary, we move to Lake Molveno, in the territory of the homonymous municipality, in Trentino, where we find the composer, DJ, and producer, Spankox, waiting for us.
Lake Molveno is a natural alpine lake, formed about 4,000 years ago as a result of a massive landslide. The poet Antonio Fogazzaro defined it as a "precious pearl, in an even more precious casket." Much of the lake's charm comes from the natural mountain setting that surrounds it. To the west rises the central chain of the Brenta Group; to the southeast, the massif of Mount Gazza and Paganella. Several Napoleonic fortresses can be found around Lake Molveno, and there is a waterfall near the "Roman Bridge" that flows directly into the lake.
Today, many artists seek to create connections between electronic music, the environment, and nature. Spankox has been one of the most daring to move between these three dimensions, experimenting with innovative technologies to create a real-time, sound experience inspired by the surrounding environment with his electronic instruments, promoting an attitude of respect and care for nature.
As in the previous performance at Base Tuono, here at Lake Molveno the electronic music you are listening to is played live by Spankox using a particular technique he has perfected himself. It is based on "stems," sound elements that the artist overlays and transforms with new arrangements, adding effects and melodies, following the inspiration of the moment. What you are listening to is an original and unique soundtrack, inspired by the specific location where the artist is performing, created in real time.
This documentary on contemporary electronic music in Trentino has revealed to us a world rich in sound, energy, and creativity. Thanks to the performances of some of the protagonists of the Trentino electronic scene, we have learned how electronic music can be a universal language, capable of connecting people from different cultures and generations.
We have also discovered that electronic music is not just a musical genre, but a complete sensory experience, capable of transmitting emotions and sensations in a unique and engaging way.
Thanks to advanced technology used in its production, electronic music is able to constantly evolve, offering new sounds and new forms of expression.
This documentary has also highlighted the important role that the Trentino electronic scene is playing nationally and internationally, thanks to its liveliness and creativity. Trentino artists have managed to create a unique musical identity that merges with the historical and cultural roots of the territory, while also being open to external influences.
Contemporary electronic music in Trentino is a vibrant and constantly evolving musical universe, worthy of exploration and discovery. This musical genre represents a form of artistic and cultural expression of great value, capable of creating connections and transmitting emotions on a universal level.
"Electrify your emotions with electronic music, where sound waves become pure energy and the rhythm makes you vibrate inside."
(Fire Saga)
"Electronic music is like a journey through creativity, where notes become colors and sounds turn into emotions."
(Alba Leng)
"Electronic music is the art of creating and shaping sound to generate a unique sensory experience, where the past, present, and future merge into a cosmic symphony."
(IAGA)
"Electronic music is a bridge that connects technology with emotion, where sound synthesis becomes a work of art that can touch the soul and make the body dance."
(Spankox)