In the latest chapter of our series “We Are The Night,” we delve into the vibrant world of Franz Scala, a luminary DJ and producer from Berlin’s Italo disco label, Slow Motion Music. This exploration highlights the evolution of the Czech Republic’s music scene, focusing on its past, present, and promising future, all while spotlighting venues like the eclectic Bike Jesus in Prague, where creativity and community intertwine.
Franz hails from Chieti, Italy, but has called Berlin home since 2006. His earliest music memories are steeped in nostalgic car journeys filled with catchy Italian pop tunes, sparking his lifelong passion. Although he lacks formal musical training, hours spent immersed in diverse genres have shaped his artistry. He began mixing in his twenties, slowly carving a path into club culture over several years.
When it comes to mixing, Franz’s repertoire is a delightful medley that includes disco, Italo, synth pop, house, and more. His music sources are eclectic too, drawing from platforms like Bandcamp and YouTube, alongside promotional tracks from fellow DJs and labels. In 2009, he launched Slow Motion Music with Fabrizio Mammarella, aiming to create a space for Italian producers that cherishes their shared musical heritage.
The recent documentary on Slow Motion Music by Arte provided a glimpse into their world, showcasing their journey and creative processes. For Franz, this opportunity was significant, allowing a broader audience to understand their music’s origins and intentions. Reflecting on the Berlin scene, he notes how it has transformed over the years, embracing a wider array of musical styles beyond the house and techno focus of the past.
Franz frequently performs abroad, recalling his vibrant debut in Prague for Disco Cirkev at Ankali, which he ranks as one of his best experiences. He expressed admiration for Bike Jesus, noting its unique atmosphere and enthusiastic audience, and complimented the Czech Republic’s club scene for its openness to diverse musical genres.
He concurs that the alternative music scene is increasingly shifting towards Eastern cities like Prague and Warsaw, acknowledging their crucial role in the contemporary music landscape. To share his musical taste, he recommends three tracks: Fabrizio Mammarella’s remix of “Ocean Of Crime” by Stage, “I Won” (Cosmo Dance Dub mix) by Dandolo, and the instrumental “Manhunt” by The Rhythm Squad. For additional details about Slow Motion Music, their journey and more, check out their website and follow them on Instagram, or watch the Arte documentary available on YouTube with English subtitles.
In “We Are The Night,” we spotlight Franz Scala of Slow Motion Music, an Italo disco label. He reflects on his musical roots from Chieti, Italy, to Berlin, discusses the vibrant evolution of the music scene, and shares insights on the Czech Republic’s embracing of diverse genres. His documentary by Arte showcases their journey, affirming the growing importance of Eastern European cities in the alternative music landscape, and he shares recommendations of three songs.
Franz Scala’s journey exemplifies the vibrant and ever-evolving music scene, where tradition meets innovation. Through his work with Slow Motion Music, he celebrates Italian music’s roots while embracing new influences. The ongoing transformation of cities like Prague highlights the shifting landscape of alternative music, promising rich opportunities for exploration and expression in the years to come.
Original Source: brnodaily.com
