Francesca Lombardo: A Unique Journey in Electronic Music
Francesca Lombardo has carved out a distinct niche in the electronic music landscape, merging emotive storytelling with hypnotic rhythms and profound melodic depth. As a globally touring DJ and live performer, she has graced notable stages at prestigious events including IMS Dalt Vila, Burning Man, Tomorrowland, Get Lost, Resistance, Circoloco, and even the renowned Royal Albert Hall. Each performance weaves a tale that captivates audiences, inviting them into her distinctive sonic world.
Photo credit: Francesca Lombardo – Facebook
Building a Rich Discography
Alongside her electrifying performances, Lombardo has built a robust catalog under esteemed labels such as Crosstown Rebels, Mobilee, Leftroom, Poker Flat, and Bedrock. She has also nurtured her own imprints, Echoe and Echolette, allowing her to foster emerging talent while expanding her creative vision.
The Turning Point of ‘Life Of Leaf’
Her debut album, ‘Life Of Leaf’, released in 2019, marked a significant evolution in her artistic journey, revealing a more personal dimension to Lombardo’s songwriting. This pivot not only showcased her capabilities as a musician and a storyteller but also aligned her artistic voice with global initiatives. Through her ‘Life of Releaf’ campaign, she encourages the music industry to support global reforestation, extending her message beyond the dancefloor and into the realm of ecological consciousness.
‘WANNA DANCE (The Remixes)’: A Reflection on Creative Freedom
With the recent release of ‘WANNA DANCE (The Remixes)’, Lombardo reflects on her creative freedom and the joy of curating an expansive remix project. The initiative arose organically, fueled by a wave of remixes from her producer friends, which originated from the a cappella version of the original EP. “It was a compilation of great music from different styles, so there’s something for everyone in there,” she notes, acknowledging the eclectic nature of the remixes.
A Diverse Range of Musical Styles
Listeners can expect a diverse range of styles in the remix package. Lombardo emphasizes that the original’s catchy vocals allowed for a wide spectrum of reinterpretations across electronic music genres. Her approach was to give artists complete freedom to explore their unique musical expressions while using her voice as the core element.
The Curation Process of the Remix Package
Curating this expansive remix package presented its challenges. Lombardo initially received around 40 remixes, making the selection process a significant task. “It took me about two months to make up my mind and choose the ones I was going to release,” she admits. With her final selection including nine standout remixes, organizing them into three single releases was another layer of complexity. Despite the challenges, she expressed her excitement about the final outcome.
“I believe as artists, we should always follow our inspirations coming from above without constraints.”
The Remix Experience
When first listening to a remix of her work, Lombardo seeks an instant connection. “I am very versatile. I like so many styles and genres in electronic music, and beyond that, I just need to love it at first listen,” she explains. This openness to diverse influences reflects her innovative spirit and her commitment to musical exploration.
Future Plans for Echolette
As we transition into the new year, Francesca’s Echolette label is poised for growth. “We have so many releases planned, and I am super excited about them!” she enthuses, hinting at upcoming music that will reestablish Echoe, her brother/sister label, which has been on hiatus. Lombardo aims to infuse new life into both imprints, promising exciting soundscapes for listeners in the coming months.
Breaking Creative Constraints
Reflecting on her artistic journey, Lombardo shares her desire to break free from creative constraints. She often finds herself inspired by melodies that diverge from her established sound. “Sometimes I get melodies coming to me, but they are so far away from what people would expect from me,” she confides. This openness to explore uncharted territory speaks to her evolution as an artist, with plans to introduce new musical ideas, even those that might defy expectations.
“I have so many songs – some with vocals – that I have always been scared of sharing with my fans. However, I am now working on doing that.”
Navigating Industry Challenges
Lombardo’s insights into the contemporary electronic music landscape reveal that artists face unique challenges, particularly those not emerging from a strong underground scene. “The motive behind becoming a DJ must be harder and more business-oriented when there is not much raving culture behind those first influences,” she observes. This consideration highlights the broader dynamics at play in the electronic music industry, where commercial pressures often intersect with artistic authenticity.
Exciting Future Gigs and Milestones
Looking forward, Lombardo is gearing up for an exciting performance at Refuge in New York. Having played there on Halloween, she has developed a fond connection with the venue. “It has become one of my favorite places to play – a warehouse with big windows, bricks, high ceilings, and a great sound,” she shares enthusiastically. Moreover, she anticipates launching her own event, ECHOTECA, with a residency in Paris at La Demesure, blending her events with a curated radio show that features her favorite artists.
Explore Francesca Lombardo’s Music
Francesca Lombardo’s ‘WANNA DANCE (The Remixes)’ is out now on her Echolette label. Fans can stream and download the project here.
