Written by Marilù Ciabattoni
Discovered via Musosoup
Introducing GIARDINI OORT, a transcendent musical project delving into the depths of human emotion through ambient and dark soundscapes. Born from a rich tapestry of global percussion and ethereal instruments like the handpan and RAV, GIARDINI OORT navigates the intricate balance between inner peace and the chaos of the external world. Influenced by icons like Trent Reznor and Nine Inch Nails, the project's compositions evolve with layered complexity, exploring themes of reflection and meditation. As the sole producer, GIARDINI OORT's sound remains authentic and immersive, while collaborations with kindred spirits amplify its creative vision. With dreams of collaborations and aspirations for wider audience connection, GIARDINI OORT embodies a journey of sonic exploration and emotional resonance in the world of ambient and dark music.
Introduce yourself: Who is GIARDINI OORT? How and when was the project born?
GIARDINI OORT is a sonic exploration into the quiet and tumultuous realms of the human spirit, a project that seeks to bridge the gap between inner peace and the chaos of the external world through music. My journey into music began with an extensive study of percussion from various cultures around the globe, a voyage that deeply influenced my understanding and appreciation of rhythm, tone, and the emotional language of music. This exploration eventually led me to the handpan and RAV, instruments that captivate with their ethereal sound and profound musical expressiveness. The project was born from a desire to create soundscapes that reflect this blend of global percussive knowledge with the haunting beauty of these instruments, emerging as a unique auditory experience crafted amidst the solemn reflections on life's intricaciest; it's a reflection of a lifelong musical odyssey that began with a drumbeat echoing across continents and culminated in the delicate balance of melody and silence..
How has your music changed in the past few years?
Over the years, my music has evolved to become more layered and complex, both in terms of composition and the themes it explores. Initially focusing on simpler ambient landscapes, I've gradually incorporated darker tones and more intricate melodies, reflecting a deeper engagement with the nuances of reflection and meditation. This evolution represents not just a shift in sound but an ongoing journey into the vast possibilities of musical expression.
Who inspired your music? Who are your biggest influences?
My music is heavily inspired by the work of Trent Reznor and Nine Inch Nails for their raw emotional power and innovative soundscapes, as well as artist like Radiohead, Massive Attack, Sigur Ros and LORN for his unique approach to electronic music. These artists have shaped my understanding of how music can evoke deep emotional responses and have influenced my exploration of dark, ambient sounds.
Could you introduce your favorite singles you've released so far?
One of my favorite singles actually is "Dark Thoughts," a track that encapsulates the project's essence. It's a piece that combines haunting melodies with introspective depth, reflecting on the tragedies of war and its impact on innocent lives. Another favorite is the next one “A Place Without Gravity”, which explores an exploration into the concept of freedom — both literal and metaphorical - showcasing the diversity within my musical exploration.
How did you develop this style? Will you experiment with other genres in the future?
My style developed from a combination of my musical influences and personal experimentation with different sounds and instruments, including moog synthesizers, handpans, drums, percussion and various effects. I'm always open to exploring new genres and sounds, aiming to blend different elements to create something truly unique. The future may hold more experimental work, possibly incorporating elements from genres outside of ambient and electronic.
Let's talk about "Dark Thoughts:" What inspired it and how did it come to life?
"Dark Thoughts" was inspired by the profound impact of war on children, particularly in conflict zones like Syria and Gaza. The inspiration came from a deep place of empathy and sorrow for these innocent lives caught in turmoil. The track came to life through a process of immersive composition, where I sought to translate these emotions into sound, creating a piece that is both haunting and reflective.
Who produces your tracks? How do you choose which producers to work with? Do you have some dream producers you'd like to work with?
Currently, I produce most of my tracks, focusing on maintaining a sound that's true to the Giardini Oort vision. When choosing collaborators, I look for producers who share a similar ethos and creative spirit.
Is music your main occupation at the moment? If not, how are you conciliating your day job with your music career?
In the current landscape, where music has become "liquid," it's nearly impossible for music to be the primary occupation for many artists, myself included. The digital age, while offering unparalleled access to listeners worldwide and allowing emerging projects like Giardini Oort to be easily discoverable, has also led to significantly diminished earnings for musicians. This paradigm shift has certainly opened doors for widespread exposure but at the cost of reducing the financial viability of music as a sole occupation. Balancing a day job with my music career has become a necessity, a challenging yet rewarding endeavor that keeps me grounded and allows me to pursue my passion for music without the pressure of financial constraints.
Have you ever been on tour? If not, would you like to embark on one? If yes, tell us about it.
Lately, my music career hasn't included touring in the traditional sense, mainly due to my commitment to balancing time between family and work. However, I'm looking for creative ways to mix business with pleasure, potentially turning my next vacation period into a sort of "mini-tour."
Who's your dream feature?
My dream feature would be collaborating with artists like Trent Reznor or Thom Yorke, whose artistry and approach to music deeply resonate with my own.
Where do you see yourself in one year as a musician?
In one year, I see myself further exploring the depths of ambient and dark music, possibly having released a new album or EP that pushes the boundaries of my current sound. I hope to connect with a wider audience, sharing the journey of Giardini Oort with those who find solace and reflection in music.
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