AGOSTA

#electronic #trip-hop #psychedelia #cinematic #sicily

Roberto Agosta was born in Catania in May 1963, the youngest of many siblings. From an early age, he took part in group listening sessions organized by his older brothers—enthusiasts of both music and politics—and their neighborhood friends. It was during these gatherings that his love for ’70s prog, rock, and psychedelia was born, along with a growing passion for organizing parties and musical happenings in underground clubs and improvised garage venues.

At 20, while never abandoning his love for music, Roberto began working in the fashion industry. Upon returning to Catania, he launched his own business by opening concept stores focused on clothing. ‘Music and fashion were natural extensions of each other and reflected my professional growth,’ he says.

There, he spun hip-hop, ambient, and trip-hop tracks during a time when Massive Attack, Portishead, Tricky, and labels like Wall of Sound and Ninja Tune were just emerging. “It was a fantastic, creative time for the city,” he recalls. “New sounds were being discovered, and spaces dedicated to them began to appear. I’ve always preferred intimate venues over big clubs—places where I can express myself and feel at home.”

Over the past decade, together with longtime friends Massimo Napoli (Galathea), Giacomo Cottone, and Salvo Borrelli, he co-founded the Nero Espresso collective.

The group hosts nights dedicated primarily to black music and holds a residency at Mercati Generali, a venue known for welcoming major international acts like Dele Sosimi and Fred Wesley.

THE MUSIC

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