Guitarist and composer Dan Logoluso is in the studio, readying his solo album “Back From a Journey.” In the meantime, Dan had some spare time to talk with Progarchy about the release and other topics.
Hey Dan. How are you doing?
Hi Folks, I’m fine thank you. I wish you and all readers a great musical 2016!
You are currently preparing an album titled “Back From A Journey.” How do you feel about the release?
I’m excited and relaxed at the same time. I feel that this album has given me a whole new energy, sort of a musical rebirth, which is definitely a very good feeling. I do look forward to the album release but i want to work slowly, step by step in order to do all the best i can. This solo album is the first of my career under my Name, i want to center the target!
How much of a challenge was it to work on the album?
I have been working very hard for the past 14 months. During this period i have dedicated many hours composing, finding the right ideas, colors and mood. I have listened a thousand times to all of the songs, in my car, at home and even walking on the road. I had to fight with those bad days when you don’t seems to have any sort of inspiration and the album seems motionless. Other days, the writing seems to fly free and now, finally the writing is done. Now i can concentrate on the production and promotion of the album. I’m taking care of all steps meticulously, it’s hard but i hope to see the results very soon.
How is the prog scene these days in Milan?
There are several prog bands in Milan and near the city. A lot of good musicians and most are really prepared, the scene is certainly active and very interesting too!
What is your opinion about the new wave of prog bands?
The prog music, as all music genres, is always in evolution. I think that the new prog bands are working very well in many aspects, such as the sound, technique and precision, but i have difficultty finding great songs like there were in the past. It seems like the real sense of music has desappeared, the art of music must be to open your heart to the audience not to simply show your skills.
Can you tell me something about your influences?
I have grown with classic Metal groups like Iron maiden, Metallica, Pantera, Megadeth. Through the years I have listened to virtuoso artists like Steve Vai , Joe Satriani, Andy Timmons, John Petrucci and Dream Theater, Angra, Symphony-x, Mr Big, Extreme, but also classic rock like Kiss, Deep Purple, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix or Jazz artist like Bireli Lagrene, John Scotfield, Wes Mongomery, Charlie Parker or Flamenco guitarists like Paco De Lucia, Manuel Granado, El Camaron. Thanks to my parents, when i was young, i also listened to a lot of Italian bands and artists like Pooh, Adriano Celentano, Lucio Battisti, I nomadi , Formula 3, Mina and others.
What are you listening to these days?
At the moment, after several months of listening “Back from a Journey”, i’m listening to radio music. Not only metal or rock but also commercial music, both to relax and to assimilate new melodic ideas or different ways of songwriting.
Your five favourite records of all time?
- Alien Love Secret (Steve Vai)
- Images and Words (Dream Theater)
- Rust in Peace (Megadeth)
- Porno Graffiti (Extreme)
- Ear X-Tacy (Andy Timmons)
Can you tell me a little bit more about the gear you use to record “Back From A Journey”?
I will certainly use my main guitar, the Esp Horizon Fr II and my Amp Blackstar Series ONE 100. I have been using them since 2010, they highlight my music approach and help me to sound natural, thinking only to the music.
Besides the release of the album, are there any other plans for the future?
At moment i’m focusing only on the release, but at the same time i’m planning a videoclip and a tour to promote the album in Italy and in other countries.
Any words for the potential new fans?
If you are searching for an emotional, dynamic, virtuoso and melodic music you must listen to “Back from a Journey”, soon my music will go down into your heart!
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Progarchy 