The mix truly defines the life of Anthony Caligagan. Born to a Swedish mother and a Filipino father, Caligagan lives in France, singing in English accompanied by two Italian musicians. An artist with multiple roots, torn between several radically opposed cultures, about a decade ago, Caligagan decided to leave his native Sweden and head south.
During his wanderings, he finds himself in Italy. It was 1992, the year he also met his two future road companions: Enrico Calandrelli (rhythm guitar/vocals) and Leo Giannola (lead guitar). Two years later, he signed his first contract with an Italian label, which also opened the doors to Midem for him. He then decided to settle down in Nice. The man from the cold Swedish climate chose the warmth of southern France.
Over the years, a strong friendship formed between Anthony, Enrico, and Leo. They decided to create an original band, 100% guitar, and perform the songs Anthony had been composing for years. The workflow is simple: Anthony writes the lyrics and melodies, and the trio handles the arrangements.
However, to maintain the spontaneity of an electro-acoustic trio, these arrangements are kept to a minimum so that the songs remain simple and enjoyable, and so that the live performance does not radically differ from the record.
Success was not long in coming. Caligagan opened for renowned artists: Mister Gang and Popa Chubby in 2003, NoJazz, Sanseverino, and Corneille in 2004, and Bertignac, Lokua Kanza, and Tiken Jah Fakoly in 2005, gathering acclaim from both the public and the artists themselves.
Equally at ease in soul, funk, reggae, or pop, Caligagan lets himself be carried by the styles, mixing them at will in his first album “Seven Languages”.
From cheerful tracks, “Sacrifice”, “High on you”, to pop ballads “Destiny” or “I can’t see tomorrow”, through reggae “Aliens” or “Natural mystic” (a tribute to Bob Marley), and the superb and intimate “I know” or “Never mind”, this first album shows the various facets of Caligagan: both tender and punchy.
Interview with Caligagan
Nice-Première: Why did you name your first album “Seven Languages”?
Caligagan: I like this title. This phrase is taken from one of the songs on my album “Smile on my face.” I sing: “Seven languages can understand.” But at the same time, even if you understand seven languages there are many people you will never understand.
N-P: What are the themes addressed in your album?
C.: They’re just simple songs about life and love in general… There are three harmonious guitars which is somewhat different from the music played in France today. I hope you’ll enjoy it. This album is for everyone.
N-P: The song titled “Natural Mystica” is a tribute to Bob Marley. What does this artist represent to you?
C.: A great artist and a fantastic songwriter. He is also a spiritual guide for many people. He’s not the only one but Bob Marley is definitely someone who has marked us forever.
N-P: Your road companions have been Enrico Calandrelli and Leo Giannola for several years. How was your trio formed?
C.: We met in Italy, several years ago. Enrico and Leo are terrific musicians, and we are also very good friends which makes it easier to work together.
We have been working together for many years. We travel together. We make music together. I consider myself very lucky to have them by my side. And I do not consider myself a solo artist. It’s all three of us together that make the magic of our music.
N-P: What comes to your mind when I say:
– Corneille: smooth
– Bertignac: experience
– Lokua Kanza: fantastic!
– Sanseverino: “artista”!!!
N-P: Why did you settle on the French Riviera?
C.: After our first MIDEM in 1995, we settled on the French Riviera. Nice and its surroundings have offered us a lot of work and beautiful things. The climate is very pleasant here, and I am not a big fan of living in a big city anyway, though I would go back to it if there was a particular interest.
N-P: What is your favorite place in Nice?
C.: I don’t know, but what I do know is that it’s not “Carrefour” …
N-p: What can we wish for you for 2006?
I wish everyone health and happiness!!! And for me… Just wait and see: “we go we do”!
