Release Radar: Romulo - Etereo [CADENZA141]

Since the start of his production journey, Romulo has steadily developed a sound shaped by years of musical exploration and a deep appreciation for the Cadenza catalogue. Now making his debut on the label with Etereo, this five track release marks an important milestone for the Italian producer, bringing together the influences and ideas that have guided his musical journey so far.

What first inspired you to start making electronic music?

When I tell you how I got into electronic music, many are amazed and surprised because my starting point is quite unusual. It all started in the parish, when I was about 13 years old during summer oratory, a time dedicated to play and fun for children, in the spirit of evangelical values. Along with other friends, I was part of a small group that took care of all the audio equipment and the musical entertainment for parties. Coordinating this group was an older young man, Antonio Diodovich (aka Adiodo), who was and still is a huge fan of electronic music and DJing. From the moment he introduced us to the concept of DJing and played us the hottest dance tracks of those years, something sparked in my heart that I can't explain. I felt, and continue to feel, a mix of emotions and sensations, somewhere between peace and euphoria, that I had never felt before.

Who have been your biggest influences over the years?

I began to define my identity, my tastes and my sound by listening to and researching music and artists online. Among my first mentors and influences were undoubtedly Luciano and the artists of Cadenza and Vagabundos, for whom it was love at first listen and who remain a point of reference to this day. Then the unmistakable sound of Tuccillo, Marco Carola, Loco Dice, Livio & Roby, to name a few, but the list could be endless because there is a lot of space within the house genres.

Etereo marks your debut on Cadenza, welcome to the family! Do you remember when you first discovered the label?

I discovered Cadenza around 2011-2012 by watching Luciano's DJ sets online and researching the titles of the records he played. An unmistakable sound that captivated me and that I was, and still am, obsessed with; those blends of melodies, percussion and vocals are something unique. Timeless records that have made Cadenza what it is today.

What does becoming part of the Cadenza catalogue mean to you?

I can't thank you enough for the opportunity and the trust you've given me, both because being part of this family is a dream I've been chasing for years and because you're focused on the music, not the "social media persona" of the moment, and that means a lot to me. The many years spent researching music, defining my sound, releasing records and trashing so many others are finally bearing the desired fruit. This release is a solid confirmation of my journey and a recognition of my talent, encouraging me to continue on this path and never give up.

Did you have a specific vision in mind when putting together this release? Were there any personal experiences, emotions or ideas that found their way into the music?

I honestly can't explain it. When I saw that Cadenza was accepting demos, I got to work and entered into a sort of flow that led me to compose the individual tracks piece by piece. It's as if I'd distanced myself from reality, so much so that listening back to the records I can’t explain how I arrived at that result, which synth I used, or how I came up with that specific arrangement. I think a lot of it depends on the historical moment I'm living in, not having worries in my head, so I can immerse myself fully in music. When this happens, the results are very appreciated.

What does your creative process look like in the studio? Are there any particular tools or techniques that have become essential to your workflow?

It all starts with how I actually feel: if I'm not in the right mood, I can't even open my DAW, so much so that there was a long period during my university years when I had a serious creative block. Based on my current feelings, the music I've recently listened to, or a goal I've set for myself, I choose the sound to focus on, searching my libraries for a groove, a vocal, a melody, or a sample that inspires me. From these elements, I build the drums around them and continue with the bass line and melodies. I then tend to go with the flow, as I said, trying not to lock myself into patterns and grids that are a bit restrictive. Beyond that, I don't have any big secrets to reveal.

You've spoken about producing music from a small studio in your garage, where your musical journey first began. After years of dedication, does it feel like things are starting to come full circle?

I'd definitely say yes and I'd even add finally, because up until now my journey has been very turbulent, with more lows than highs and so many setbacks that almost tempted me to give up. Over the years, my goal has been to break free from the music scene in my country, which I consider unhealthy, and this release is definitely a first step toward that. There will certainly be challenges, especially today between AI and an industry that values followers more than the quality of music and talent, but I'm confident and hope to be able to add another piece to my journey.

Outside of music, how do you like to switch off and where do you tend to find inspiration?

What does "switch off" mean?! Just kidding! I love nature and animals, but I don't have much green space in the city, so for some greenery I play airsoft just outside the city. I'm also creative in other fields, including photography and videography, which help me look at reality more closely and express what's inside me. There's no shortage of films and TV series, of course, and finally also spirituality, which helps me entrust to God the good things and, above all, the bad things I experience that could crush me.

As you're continuing to build your career, what's been the most rewarding moment for you so far?

This release is definitely the pinnacle of the moment, but a really great moment a few years ago was when I played in a second room at a venue in my hometown. My turn coincided with the guest's arrival in the main room, so I wasn't expecting a huge turnout. But once I got on the decks and started my set, the room filled to capacity, so much so that I was afraid the main room had emptied out. I still remember it as an amazing moment, I felt full of energy and we had so much fun!

What can we expect next from Romulo?

I told someone that paradoxically, once I reached this milestone, I might stop making music. But that won't be the case. In fact, as they say, strike while the iron is hot, so I will certainly continue to release music, aiming for quality rather than quantity as in recent years, to further define my artistic identity, demonstrate my talent and enjoy this wonderful journey.

Check out Etereo on Beatport and Bandcamp.