From today, Friday 4th October, the new album “No Jazz. Tribute to Natalino Otto“, a modern reinterpretation of the work of Natalino Otto curated by Jazz Combo Fidanza. This recording project, available in both physical and digital formats, celebrates the 55th anniversary of the death of the legendary singer and musician, pioneer of Swing in Italy.
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Natalino Otto: The Journey of a Swing Pioneer
The story of Natalino Otto, whose real name was Natale Codognotto, is fascinating and crucial to understanding the roots of the Italian Swing. In 1932, at the age of twenty, Natalino began his musical journey by embarking on the transatlantic liner Conte di Savoia as assistant to the drummer on board. This role was fundamental in his artistic development, as it allowed him to cross the Atlantic Ocean 34 times, between Genoa and New York, immersing himself in the musical fervor of the time.
Swing and Censorship in Italy
His return to Genoa in 1935 marked the arrival of Swing in Italy. His talent was not limited to the drums; in fact, thanks to the experiences gained overseas, Natalino began to sing and leave an indelible mark on Italian music. However, between 1941 and 1945, Swing and Jazz music suffered harsh censorship in the country, considered "barbaric anti-black music" by EIAR, the State Radio Company. Despite the adversities, Natalino Otto continued to sing and record, patiently awaiting the change that came at the end of the war.
The Post-War Rebirth
With the advent of 1944 and the transformation of EIAR into RAI, Natalino Otto's career received a new boost. He was finally recognized for his artistic and cultural contribution, culminating in 1949 with his official signing with RAI. This marked the beginning of a brilliant career, not only as a singer but also as an author and publisher, consolidating his status as a great Italian artist.
Fabio Fidanza and the New Album
Fabio Fidanza, head of the “No Jazz. Tribute to Natalino Otto” project, shared his inspiration for the album: «I asked myself who our Frank Sinatra, Count Basie, Nat King Cole, Duke Ellington were. The answer was clear and led me to Natalino Otto and other pioneers of Swing in Italy. Listening to his songs seemed familiar to me, finding echoes of my musical history.»
A Timeless Repertoire
The new album explores the vast oeuvre of Natalino Otto, alternating songs that have marked Italian musical culture, such as “Op Op Trotta Cavallino” and “Mamma Voglio Anch'io La Fidanzata”, with lesser-known masterpieces such as “Benvenuto Mister Swing” and “Perdoni Signor Bach”. There is no shortage of emblematic pieces such as “Che Ritmo, Senti Che Ritmo” and “Non Ti Posso Dar Che Baci”, which reflect Otto's inexhaustible creativity.
The Production: A Touch of Nostalgia
In keeping with the spirit of the times, “No Jazz. Omaggio a Natalino Otto” was recorded as a duo and live, with the voice imitating the wind instruments, creating the atmosphere of a small orchestra. This stylistic choice offers the listener an authentic experience, bringing back to life the magic of Italian Swing and the genius of Natalino Otto.
Article published on 4 October 2024 - 14:37
