Main Characters:
The Basement: A significant part of our history, our basement was an ultra-deluxe model graciously provided by Zabban (see Zabban). It was clean, shining, and pleasantly aromatic—a true gem.
Caldini: Known as the dark prince of the band, Caldini was a sensitive and refined guitarist with a noble spirit. He had a penchant for 'rive gauche' scarves and was the primary songwriter. Later, he would become the prince of Karnak (see Karnak) and a life and artistic partner to Michela (see Michela). Together, they still perform under the name FKT.
Menichetti: A passionate and exuberant drummer, Menichetti sought to play every drum at his disposal. His intensity was evident as he struck the drums vigorously, echoing his fervent thoughts.
Chiappini: The bohemian keyboardist with striking blue eyes and a charming persona, Chiappini created delicate harmonic tapestries. Known for his romantic pursuits, he enjoyed a vibrant lifestyle and eventually joined Moda (see Moda) before fading from the scene.
Di Pasquale: The bassist of chance, Di Pasquale was somewhat moody and possessed rudimentary techniques, yet made his presence felt when it mattered.
Micheli/Spalck: A singer with a unique style, Micheli/Spalck was known for his eccentric clothing and makeup. He would later join Pankow (see Pankow) before retreating to the other side of the world.
Martini: A friend of Zabban (see Zabban), Martini created a ruckus with pots and pans, producing enough noise for multiple musicians, all with a touch of sarcasm.
Pilu: A bassist reminiscent of Paul Simonon, Pilu had long arms, a blond coif, and a cigarette perpetually perched at the corner of his mouth. A true punk figure, he gained notoriety for his exploits in Karnak (see Karnak).
Cosi: A saxophonist and shouter, Cosi was a character straight out of a novel. As a traveler and perpetual agitator, he embodied the spirit of Garibaldi and served as the driving force behind Karnak (see Karnak). His blend of legend and reality is notable.
Friends:
Zabban: The proprietor of the basement and an avid record collector, Zabban was a dedicated patron of the arts.
Pino Di Salvo: A beloved figure within the Florentine scene, Di Salvo was known for his unwavering loyalty and relentless energy.
Michela: The lead singer of Karnak (see Karnak) and a devoted partner to Caldini, Michela was a sweet and gentle presence, sharing her birthday with Micheli/Spalck (see Micheli/Spalck).
Cesaretti: A young fanzine writer and aspiring record producer, Cesaretti eventually became one of Italy's most talented architects.
Fasolo: A cosmic genius and the founder of Pankow (see Pankow), Fasolo was respected and feared by many. He captivated Micheli/Spalck and transformed him into a lifelong 'pankowita' (Pankow man). Now residing in France (see France), Fasolo dedicates his life to music, spanning genres from Monteverdi (see Monteverdi) to the rebirth of Pankow (see Pankow). Legend has it that he once remarked that the song "Romy" (see Romy Schneider) by Polyactive was quite good.
The era we lived through was unparalleled. Florence once again took its place at the center of the world, reminiscent of the time of Lorenzo the Magnificent. At Tenax that month, you could witness performances by Killing Joke, Bauhaus, DAF, Tuxedomoon, and Echo & the Bunnymen. The girls donned green boots and were all stunning. The communist party social clubs were alive with music and cacophony. At twenty years old, we navigated the tumult of youthful hormones, harboring a dislike for Diaframma and Litfiba. What more can be said? It was both beautiful and tumultuous, and we even managed to write two or three decent songs.
— Alex Spalck (translation by Andrée Thibert, updated by Susan Hillman)
From the liner notes on "Silence Over Florence 1982-1984"
