1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bi about the musical project?
1. After various live musical experiences, studio sessions, and organizing concerts for both myself and Monica, we brought the electronic-noise project P.U.M.A. to life, which is all about improvisation and instinct. Our passion for music and curiosity to explore the realms of experimental and industrial music are at the core of everything we do, while we remain open to different genres.
2.Musically how do all of your releases differ from each other?
2. In "Red Winter," released with Reverse Alignment, in "Nuages" by Musique Moleculaire, and in "Itinere" by The Church of Noisy Goat, we’ve used different synthesizers each time. However, what ties these experiences together is our ongoing search for both old and new sounds that surround us: from loops recorded on the street to samples from classic films, particularly from the seventies. This process represents our interpretation of the world around us, whether it’s old or new. We don't arrive at definitive theories, particular conclusions, or absolute truths; instead, while working in a rather complex genre, we try to reflect and engage with where we are, firmly rejecting the mainstream.
3.What are some of the themes and concepts that you bring out in your musical style?
3. We express and encourage exploration, research, and dialogue—our small contribution against monochromatic thinking, uniform listening habits, and the prefab music of the mainstream. Luckily, we’re not alone in this; in fact, there are many of us!
4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name P.U.M.A?
4. The name P.U.M.A. was born from a playful word game during a night filled with vodka, gin and tonics, and good music, surrounded by laughter and stories under the vibrant Milanese sky. Inspired by a well-known brand, this acronym, originally created as a joke, now brings us immense joy with releases, reviews, and, most importantly, friends all over the world—cells resistant to the one-dimensional musical thought and unconventional!
5.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is presented on the new album cover?
5. For "Itinere," the image was chosen by the label, capturing graphically what we wanted to express with our music: journey, risk, and mystery...
6.Currently there are only 2 members in the band, are you open to expanding your line up or do you prefer to work as a duo?
6. We work as a duo but are open to co-productions and new album projects. Exciting news and surprises for genre lovers and beyond are on the horizon!
7.Have you had any opportunities to do any live shows with this project?
7. We’ve performed in various settings and festivals, from Zurich to Milan, from Genoa to Geneva, and we have more events lined up. Live shows are when we can truly express our energy and love for improvisation.
8.Can you tell us a little bit more about the record labels you have worked with over the years with this project?
8. All the labels active in the field of experimental ambient music, each with their own nuances, have published numerous works by fascinating artists that we love to listen to. Releasing music with them has allowed us to connect with people around the globe; some of these connections have turned into genuine friendships. Musique Moleculaire is based in Montreal and also explores electroacoustic sound; The Church of Noisy Goat hails from Porto Alegre and dives into harsh noise and beyond. Reverse Alignment, an Italian-Swedish label, delves into various facets of ambient and dark ambient music.
9.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of experimental, ambient and noise?
9. As I mentioned earlier, friendships have blossomed even thousands of kilometers away, which means so much more than the frantic quest for “likes” by certain bands and musicians—some even going so far as to pay for them. What we’ve found are real contacts and authentic relationships, people with whom we can share genuine experiences, all rooted in our love for music.
10.What is going on with some of the other musical projects these days that you are a part of?
10. Another project I’m involved with, where Monica helps with relationships, promotion, and concert searches, is called Mechanics for Dreamers, where I play bass. It’s a complex show centered around building musical machines made from recycled materials, fully automated to create sounds and rhythms, incorporating fire, water flows, and air.
11.Where do you see this project heading into musically during the future?
11. We definitely still have a lot to say and do with commitment and dedication; new releases and concerts await us!
12.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
12. We listen with great interest to the labels mentioned. During our younger years, we developed a strong passion for dark wave and new wave. However, our tastes span from the works of Alva Noto and Ryuichi Sakamoto to those by Joseph Van Wissem and his film scores. Among our classic noise favorites are Cabaret Voltaire, SPK, and Throbbing Gristle, just to name a few. We are true music enthusiasts and embrace multiple genres, from classical music to 20th-century experimentation.
13.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
3. A heartfelt thanks to you, and to everyone who promotes independent music outside of commercial channels. Of course, we also thank all the labels that have published and supported us—you are true heroes in these challenging times.
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