Interview with Latteo

Latteo is a rising force in the world of electronic music, captivating audiences with a sound that seamlessly blends organic grooves, cinematic textures, and exotic influences. Hailing from Sicily and now based in Bologna, Latteo’s musical journey is deeply rooted in the cultural intersections of his upbringing, where the vibrant traditions of his home island meet the refined inspiration of Tuscany’s Renaissance landscapes. Since debuting in 2020, his evolution has been remarkable—transitioning from softer, slower rhythms to high-energy dance-floor anthems, all while maintaining his signature fusion of harmony and techno.

With releases on prestigious labels like Bar25, Kindisch, and Buddha Bar, Latteo has established himself as a versatile producer, earning a reputation for pushing boundaries. From exploring unconventional instruments in electronic music to crafting emotional “romantic techno” with longtime collaborator D’aria, Latteo’s music is a testament to his insatiable curiosity and commitment to innovation.

Change Underground dive into Latteo’s creative journey, his influences, and the stories behind his music. From the rich underground music culture of Bologna to his upcoming EP ‘Break Skin’, Latteo shares insights into his artistry, collaborations, and what’s next for this trailblazing producer.

Can you share the journey of how you started producing music and your evolution since debuting in 2020?

My story is rooted in Sicily, an island where East meets West, where traditional songs, enriched by the tambourine and marranzano, carry echoes of Arabic influences. My passion for electronic music later blossomed in Tuscany, inspired by the beauty of Renaissance art.

Over time, my style has evolved: from softer sounds and slow rhythms to more energetic genres designed for the dance floor, while preserving the harmonies that, combined with techno, define style.

Your music blends organic grooves, cinematic elements, and exotic influences. What inspires these unique stylistic choices?

My curiosity for exploring new approaches to electronic music drives me to combine the synthesizer with less conventional instruments in techno, such as strings, plucked instruments, or sounds recorded directly from nature.

Sound synthesis, at its core, is inherently connected to nature: it relies on manipulating waves, frequencies, and harmonies to create complex phenomena, born from the fusion of creativity and discovery.

How does living in Bologna shape your artistic identity and music production?

The underground music history of Bologna is rich and diverse, rooted in a long tradition of cultural resistance and artistic experimentation. Since the 1970s and 1980s, the city has been a focal point for alternative and countercultural music movements, often in response to the political and social situation of the time.

Bologna has thus become a landmark for underground music thanks to its ability to blend tradition and innovation, supporting artists and new movements.

You’ve released tracks with well-known labels like Bar25, Kindish, and Buddha Bar. What has been the most impactful moment in your career so far?

These collaborations have allowed me to connect with an international music community and have contributed to growing and refining my style, enabling me to reach a wider audience.

I can’t identify a single turning point in my career, as each release has been essential for my evolution and for moving closer to a sound that is always evolving.

Your collaborations with D’aria, on this new release and Marginalia. What makes this partnership so special?

I met Daria in Siena, an encounter that felt almost destined. She is an incredible songwriter, and her lyrics have added a unique touch to my tracks, making them more intimate and emotional. I like to call our music “romantic techno“. We always work remotely between Bologna and Berlin, but we do it with a unique simplicity, a flow of ideas that intertwine perfectly

With releases on platforms like Toka Musik and Bar25, what do you look for in a label partnership?

Working with labels like Toka Musik, Amselcom, Marginalia & Bar25 has shown me the importance of collaboration, mutual respect, and creative freedom. I value labels that foster a community of like-minded artists and support a culture of innovation and experimentation.

How do you balance between staying true to your artistic voice and adapting to trends in electronic music?

Balancing my artistic voice with the evolving trends in electronic music is a continuous process that requires staying grounded in what makes my sound unique while remaining open to new influences. I believe that authenticity is key, so I always prioritize the core elements of my music that resonate with me and my audience.

With your new ‘Break Skin’ EP out now, what’s next for Latteo in terms of new projects or collaborations?

With the Break Skin EP set to drop this December, I’m currently working on a series of tracks which are an ode to women’s voices, new collaborations with Daria and international singers such as Iveta Mukuchyan are coming soon. There are also plans to explore live sets and immersive experiences that translate the essence of my studio work into a dynamic performance.

What advice would you give to up-and-coming producers looking to break into the techno or organic house scene?

Believe in what you do. Enjoy the process. Don’t stop and keep going.

Where do you see your sound evolving in the next few years? Any genres or collaborations you’re keen to explore?

I dream of performing with live musicians one day. Incorporating those acoustic sounds into my tracks has always been a passion, and bringing them to life on stage with real musicians would be an incredible way to deepen my vision of electronic music.