Marek De Vann, after more than 20 years as a bassist across punk, surf, and stoner rock projects, emerged in 2022 as an electronic music project exploring the intersection of analog synthesis, groove-driven composition, and cinematic atmospheres.
With “Stereotyping,” Marek De Vann joins forces with Hammond organist Paolo Apollo Negri to deliver a cinematic electronic album steeped in the atmosphere of 1970s Italian crime-film soundtracks and American cop-show funk. Released through the historic Italian label IRMA Records, the project embraces familiar genre conventions while playfully exploring the musical clichés that have made this style so instantly recognizable.
Drawing inspiration from soundtrack composers including Cipriani, Micalizzi and Goblin, the album combines vintage sensibilities with a carefully assembled electronic palette. Moog synthesizers, drum machines, Clavinet, Rhodes and Mellotron provide the foundation for its retro sound, creating a meeting point between instrumental funk, jazz-inflected grooves and soundtrack-inspired electronica. Rather than simply reproducing the past, De Vann and Negri use these influences as material for their own creative interpretation.
The album’s central concept gives the music an additional layer of character. Every track deliberately conceals a recognizable genre cliché, whether a police siren, conga slaps, a slinky funk bassline or wordless female vocals. This playful approach makes “Stereotyping” both a tribute to its influences and a knowing examination of the musical ingredients associated with them. The title captures this balance between affection and self-awareness.
Opening track “When a Plan Comes Together,” featuring vocals by Maddalena Conni, establishes the album’s identity with a tense, groovy and cinematic atmosphere. Its placement sets expectations for a project that values mood, rhythmic energy and the evocative power of familiar sonic references.
The release is also available as a grey marble vinyl edition, co-released with Other Eyes Records on October 24, reinforcing its connection to tangible musical culture.
Ultimately, “Stereotyping” offers an engaging celebration of retro soundtrack aesthetics, bringing vintage funk influences into a contemporary electronic setting with style, personality and playful intent.
