Formula Indie Sessions _ Interview with Cato

Cato, aka Roberto Picinali, is an Italian singer-songwriter originally from Bergamo, Italy, active since 1995. His unique and enthralling sound comes from the fusion of pop, rock and reggae, resulting in songs that tell emotional stories. In addition to music, Cato is involved in social projects, supporting refugee reception, environmental protection and fundraising for various non-profit organizations, including through his extraordinary road trip ‘Cato & Vale On the Silk Road’, from Bergamo to Hong Kong. With several albums under his belt and an intense live activity, his music continues to travel, without borders.

What is your earliest memory connected to music?

I remember an old radio in the kitchen playing Italian hits from the early 80s. I tried to record those songs on cassette tape, with little success.

How did your passion for creating music begin?

In the mid-90s, I listened to hip hop rap Run Dmc Ice T De La Soul Beastie Boys, then I bought a guitar.

What’s the story behind your current music project?

In 1995, I started playing with different bands. Then, in 2000, my friends and I formed a band called Namastè. We wrote songs, played reggae pachtanka, and produced three albums. Then, in 2006, the project broke up, and I decided to continue making music on my own, with the help of some musician friends. That’s when the Cato project was born.

How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?

A wave of good vibes

What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?

Working with a music producer has helped me improve my composition skills.

What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?

Guitar sometimes bass I don’t use any special software. I like to record songs live with the band and then take them to the recording studio.

Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?

Lùisa Moderat

How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?

I travel all over the world for work, meeting new people and interacting with them.

and organise the Cato & Vale on the Silk Road trip, travelling 35,000 km by car from Italy to Hong Kong to raise funds for the non-profit organisations Emergency and Admo.

What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?

the slogan of my logo +Love -Stress

hat’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?

If you believe in a project, you can do it.

What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?

Coachella

If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?

Neil Young

Where can our listeners follow and support your music? (Website,Spotify, IG, links)

CATO

Web: catoband.com

Spotify: https://is.gd/ZR3ZIc