Varv (IT)
Varv is a duo composed of Andrea Cappi on keys and Francesco Mascolo on drums, and it’s a crossover project in which the jazz background of both musicians is stripped of its traditional characteristics and used to explore more experimental territories, between electronica and progressive. Their music tends to evoke slightly dystopian landscapes, in which written song parts alternate with sound manipulations and improvisations. In 2022, they released the first single Permeability. In 2024, they released the single Limestone, which anticipates the first album Lowlands, published by the belgian Off Record label in the same year.
Leona Berlin (DE)
Berlin-based singer and producer, Leona Berlin, mesmerizes with her atmospherically dense alternative R'n'B. Rooted in hip hop and soul, she effortlessly blends genres, crafting a unique sound universe of passionate melodies and groovy dance tracks. Leona's authentic lyrics resonate with many, as she aims for depth and honesty in an era dominated by social media.
Following her debut with Warner Music in 2018 she has collaborated with artists such as Snoop Dogg and Ray Angry from The Roots. Her second album titled "Change" (November 2021) features contributions from NYC rapper Stimulus and LA keyboardist Rob Araujo earning a spot on the German Record Critics Award" bestlist for 2022. Other artists Leona collaborated with include Casey Benjamin (Robert Glaser Experiemnt), Gregory Hutchinson and Karriem Riggins, which testify to her incredible musical range as a singer, songwriter and producer. Her third studio album is underway, with the first single „WHO?“ released in October, followed by more in the coming months.
Leona has graced various stages and festivals, including Women of the World Festival, TEDx, and Xjazz Festival. Supporting acts like Al Jarreau, PJ Morton, and Lisa Stansfield, she leaves a lasting impression on her audiences.
Realized with the support of the National Cultural Fund and Liveurope.
