In the ever-evolving landscape of music, some artists merely play notes and rhythms, and then there are those rare individuals who craft entire sonic experiences. Camilla Lubatti, a natural cosmopolitan, unequivocally falls into the latter category. Although she was born in Italy, her profound passion for music has taken her on a lifelong journey of exploration and collection, establishing her as a formidable presence in the international music scene.
The foundation of Camilla’s musical journey is rooted in her family history. Her father, Bruno Lubatti, was a revered guitarist who once graced the stage in the Italian Progressive Rock scene during the 1970s and 1980s. His musical legacy has left an indelible mark on Camilla’s artistic path, influencing her distinct approach to sound.
What sets Camilla apart is her extraordinary ability to immerse herself in the vibrant music scenes of cities across the world. From the enchanting streets of Turin to the lively neighbourhoods of Lisbon, the rhythmic heartbeat of Boston, and the ever-pulsating energy of New York and Brooklyn, which she currently calls home.
Camilla’s journey is a seamless blend of cultural immersion and musical exploration. Her live performances, spanning from Lisbon to London, Miami to Washington DC, Cuneo to Genova, and beyond, have consistently left audiences captivated. She effortlessly navigates between classic old-school records and the latest, cutting-edge sounds, all while delivering bass-driven, uplifting beats precisely when the moment demands. In a chat, Camilla opened up about her background, musical journey, her most memorable performance, future plans and aspirations, big moves and more. Read the excerpts below:
- We know you have lived in different cities and these had a profound impact on your musical journey. But why did you decide to leave Italy in the first place?
Leaving Italy initially was a decision driven by a desire to explore and immerse myself in different musical landscapes. While my hometown had a significant influence on my early experiences, the decision to venture beyond Italy was fueled by a curiosity to understand and absorb the diverse cultural and musical influences that other cities had to offer. This exploration, spanning cities like New York, London, and Lisbon, became an integral part of my musical journey, enriching my understanding of electronic music’s evolution and contributing to the unique tapestry of sounds that define my artistic style today.
- Tell us a bit more about your father and his musical career. How, specifically, did he introduce you to the world of music as you were a little kid?
My father, a renowned guitarist who played a pivotal role in the Progressive Rock scene in Italy in the 70’s and 80’s, introduced me to the world of music from a very young age. His extensive collection of hundreds of records and recorded tapes at home created an immersive musical environment. As a kid, I would spend entire days and afternoons with him, delving into his vast music collection. He was like a living music encyclopedia, effortlessly naming albums, providing release dates, sharing stories, and categorizing them into specific genres, eras, and currents. It was during these sessions that my father’s passion for music became contagious, fostering a deep appreciation for diverse sounds and genres.His passion for music didn’t just kickstart my musical journey; it also left me kinda wishing I could’ve snagged his crazy good memory for tunes. I often joke about wishing I got that from him!
- What was the most epic and memorable performance of this past summer European tour?
Among the highlights of my European tour this past summer, one performance that stands out was at Fincadelica in Ibiza. This particular event held a unique significance for me as I had always visited the island as a dancer. Transitioning from being an attendee to performing at such a renowned location for electronic dance music was a special experience. It was a culmination of my journey as a music enthusiast on the island, now turned performer, creating an experience that I hadn’t anticipated long before but will cherish for a very long time.
- As you’re on the brink of launching your own record label, could you provide insights into the sonic landscape you aim to cultivate? Can we anticipate a reflection of your DJ sets and the music typically featured at your Encrypted parties?
On a broad level, the label will indeed embrace cosmic and spacey vibes with a prominent inclusion of acid elements, echoing the signature sounds often present in both my DJ sets and the artists featured at Encrypted parties. However, it’s crucial to note that the label’s vision is an ongoing exploration. While these initial elements set a tone, there’s a recognition that there’s still a substantial journey ahead to fully articulate the label’s comprehensive vision.
- Could you delve into what distinguishes your label from others? Is there a specific narrative or theme that will accompany each release and track?
Certainly, the label aspires to transcend the conventional model of simple EP releases. Each offering will be more than just a collection of tracks; there will be a carefully crafted story and a meaningful message woven into the fabric of every release. The aim is to ensure that the label communicates something significant, contributing to a greater purpose. It’s about using music as a vehicle for positive change and creating a space where the auditory experience transcends mere entertainment, striving to make the world better through the power of music.
- Do you have plans to release your own music, either on your upcoming label or on other platforms?
Releasing my own music is undoubtedly on the horizon. However, I’m a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to my artistic work. I believe in waiting for the optimal moment, ensuring that the music truly aligns with the vision I have in my mind. The sound quality needs to be impeccable, and I must be almost entirely satisfied with the final product before making it available to the audience. To provide a tentative timeline, I am aiming for the end of 2024 to release my first EP, allowing ample time for meticulous craftsmanship and sonic perfection.
- Can you share a recent B2B performance that left a lasting impression on you?
Certainly, a standout B2B that caught my attention was Evan Baggs and Ryan Elliott at the Resolute Why So Serious event this past Halloween in New York. I’ve long admired both artists individually for different reasons, and witnessing them collaborate was a delightful surprise. Their selection, particularly the choice of spacey, Trancey, and progressive house records, was sublime. It not only showcased their individual strengths but also made me reevaluate my own musical choices. The synergy between Baggs and Elliott created a memorable sonic experience that resonated with me on a profound level.
- Looking ahead to 2024, what aspirations and goals do you have for the upcoming year?
In the coming year, my vision revolves around continual artistic evolution and pushing the boundaries of my creativity. The focus will be on further refining my understanding of sound and honing my production skills. Collaboration with talented DJs, exploration of new musical territories, and contribution to the global electronic music scene remain key objectives. I am ready and happy to be surprised on the way, of course 🙂
Stay tuned for more of Camilla’s adventures and discoveries as she takes us on a journey from her Italian roots to the heart of New York’s pulsating beats via: