Nu Genea: The Architects of Modern Neapolitan Disco

Nu Genea is an Italian production and multi-instrumentalist duo renowned for revitalizing the classic sounds of 1970s Neapolitan funk and disco for a global audience. Hailing from Naples, the pair achieved a landmark success with their 2022 album Bar Mediterraneo, which soared to the top of the Italian albums chart and earned a gold certification.

Early career

Formed in Naples around 2015, the duo consists of producers and multi-instrumentalists Massimo Di Lena and Lucio Aquilina. Their project began as a deep dive into the archives of Italian library music and the vibrant, percussive sound of the city's historic folk and funk scenes. Their initial work culminated in the 2016 release of their debut album, The Tony Allen Experiments, on their own NG Records, which reimagined the Afrobeat legend's rhythms through a Mediterranean lens.

Breakthrough

Nu Genea's breakthrough arrived with their sophomore album, 2018's Nuova Napoli. The record masterfully blended vintage Neapolitan melodies with contemporary dancefloor sensibilities, capturing the essence of the city's sound. Released again on their NG label, the album resonated deeply, building a fervent international following and establishing them as leaders in the modern European funk revival.

Key tracks

Disco Sole — This sun-drenched instrumental from 'Nuova Napoli' became an instant signature track, perfectly encapsulating their warm, analog sound.

Gelbi — Featuring the vocals of Célia Kameni, this standout single from 'Bar Mediterraneo' is a hypnotic fusion of Afrobeat and Italian disco that dominated summer playlists.

Vesuvio — A driving, brass-led anthem that pays direct homage to the classic Neapolitan funk of the 1970s, showcasing their foundational influences.

Stann Fore — This collaboration with Italian singer Fabiana Martone exemplifies their skill in crafting modern classics that feel timeless, taken from their 2022 chart-topper.

The massive success of Bar Mediterraneo solidified their status, leading to extensive international touring and performances at major festivals. Their work extends to their label, NG Records, which has become a hub for the contemporary Italian funk scene, releasing music by similar artists and hosting celebrated club nights in Naples.

For fans of Nu Genea's rich, Mediterranean-inflected groove, the sounds of Calibro 35 offer a cinematic take on Italian instrumental funk. The Apulians explore similar vintage Italian sounds with a psychedelic edge. The global dancefloor appeal is shared by the French ensemble L'Impératrice, who craft sleek, modern disco. Listeners might also enjoy the balearic rhythms and edits of The Supermen Lovers.

Nu Genea's vibrant catalog is a staple on a wide array of radio stations featured on this website. Their tracks regularly energize the playlists of dedicated funk and soul stations, eclectic online radio streams, and independent music radio stations focused on global dance music.

You can hear the warm, infectious grooves of Nu Genea on radio stations featured across our platform. To discover their music and the stations that play it, explore the wide selection of online radio available on onairium.com.