Maurizio Naoplitano: Guitar & Effects Gianni Dragonetti: Synthesizers Silvestro Casciello: Drums & Programming Lino Monaco: Vocals

A Brief Biography of Voxzema:

In the midst of the punk movement, as spikes were transformed into badges, a conversation unfolded between Lino Monaco and myself while traversing the familiar intellectual paths. I posed a question about electronic music, to which he responded with another: What was punk?

This question ignited a memory of punk's essence, characterized by an overwhelming desire for self-expression, regardless of the available means. It represented a challenge to the constraints imposed by an official culture, dominated by a self-appointed elite focused solely on knowledge and expression. The goal was to either continue existing paths or to venture into new, uncharted territories, with the key motivation being movement itself.

This context is essential to understanding Voxzema, a group formed by four or five individuals from the outskirts of Naples, hailing from small towns beneath the shadow of Mount Vesuvius. These urban areas, steeped in a dominant Catholic subculture and frequented by tourists, were also marked by harsh realities, including the rampant influence of drug trafficking.

In an environment where punk ideals were often suppressed, Voxzema emerged as a distinct voice, shaped by limited resources yet propelled by creative energy. While their music and lyrics defied traditional punk classification, they represented a powerful force in a region typically dominated by melodic tunes and monotonous rock.

Describing their sound as 'revolutionary' is appropriate, as it resonated with the memories of many and influenced a generation of youth. This period mirrored the anticipation of impending change, akin to the moments before birth.

The allure of electronic music captivated audiences, igniting curiosity and dismantling preconceived notions of local music. Notably, the band distanced itself from traditional influences such as the mandolin and 'tarantella,' drawing instead from the raw energy of their environment, which contributed to their unique style—a fusion of post-punk and influences from groups like Minimal Compact and Xymox.

Voxzema was formed between 1986 and 1987, meeting in a new-baroque venue to celebrate a birthday. Their inaugural composition, "The Drop," reflected a harmonious yet intimate exploration of shadows and fears, marking the beginning of their creative journey.

Following this, the band began performing, gaining recognition in the vibrant alternative scene of Naples despite facing challenges in venues that lacked proper facilities. The lineup remained relatively stable, though they experienced changes in bass players—Gennaro Di Meo, Paolo Traverso, and Carmine Contaldi—each contributing meaningfully to their music.

Tracks like "Kriminali" emerged when Naoplitano's brother-in-law playfully shouted “Kriminali!” during a performance, leading to a memorable inclusion in the song. "Koma" addressed existential themes, while "Scivola Via" captured the gradual disillusionment of a group of young people seeking to escape the mundane.

Ultimately, Voxzema disbanded just as interest in their music began to grow, largely due to internal disagreements. They existed briefly, with "The Drop" marking both their inception and conclusion.

Attempts to reform the band occurred in the years that followed, but by 1989-1990, they had definitively closed that chapter. Interestingly, the digital age has transformed what was once a fond memory into an enduring entity, suggesting that the ideas and creations born from their passion continue to resonate and intertwine across time.

Discography: VA: Ologenesi Energia-EP011 tape 1989 Voxzema: S/T Domestica-DOM07-M 10" 2014