Daily Discovery: Calibro 35 – Reptile Strut

Calibro 35, the Milan-based outfit known for their fresh take on the funky soundtracks of ’70s Italian crime cinema, return with a new instrumental single, “Reptile Strut.” True to their signature style, the track fuses tight breakbeat-driven jazz-funk rhythm, featuring fuzzy guitar riffs, textured drums, and ethereal grooves. The track’s title draws inspiration from the green lizard, symbolising regeneration and introspection, mirroring the song’s evolving tempos and experimental nature.

Formed in 2007, Calibro 35 comprises Enrico Gabrielli (keyboards, flute, saxophone, xylophone), Luca Cavina (bass), Massimo Martellotta (guitar, keyboards), Fabio Rondanini (drums), and Tommaso Colliva (sound research and production). Initially conceived as a five-day studio project to reinterpret obscure Italian exploitation film soundtracks, the group quickly gained acclaim for their innovative approach, leading to extensive tours across Italy and Europe. With a string of critically acclaimed albums and collaborations with the likes of PJ Harvey and Stewart Copeland, they’ve developed a reputation for boundary-pushing creativity, both in the studio and live performances.

“Reptile Strut” serves as the lead single from their forthcoming ninth studio album, Exploration, scheduled for release on the 6th of June. This album marks their return to Record Kicks, following their 2023 release Nouvelles Aventures. Exploration delves into cinematic jazz-funk, featuring both original pieces and covers of classics by artists like Roy Ayers and Bob James.

For a taste of their upcoming work, to pre-order it and listen to “Reptile Strut” HERE