In November 2019, I came up with the idea of approaching my art in an innovative way : combining music and cinema.
At the time I didn't know it had a name : I was producing a visual album. Very much concerned by the meaning and the purpose my art is serving, I decided to convey a strong message : promote diversity, inclusion and tolerance. These values are expressed in all shapes, from the music genres I compose to the topics I address in my lyrics.
Through its powerful message, this audacious and engaged project shines the spotlight on important causes.
I wrote 5 songs and a scenario to link them all through a story. I wanted to give that EP a visual identity through a short film.
In summer 2020, I contacted Mei Fa Tan who was excited about the project and accepted the collaboration.
She adapted the storyline and brought her experience and creativity as film director.
In December 2020, despite the health crisis and the restrictions in place, we shot the video clips over 5 days in Geneva and Lausanne.
In total, above 60 Swiss cultural players, all arts and professions combined, have been involved in the project.
The tracks dropped on all streaming platforms on 26 November 2021.
CHAPTER 1 : THE CALLING
Entering the hallway of my memories, I go through my reminiscences and notice a strange phenomenon is happening. On the wall, photos of my family and my childhood are distorted, flowing, disappearing.
At the end of the corridor, my nonna, guardian of this heritage, disfigured, about to fade away. Her jewel is the key.
Will I be able to save my cultural heritage?
CHAPTER 3 : BETTER
Better was the second track to be released, on September 22.
It depicts the subtlety of a wavering love-hate relationship in a dysfunctional couple whose dark side takes over and leads to violence (verbal or physical). The lyrics resonate with an unacknowledged truth and blend with the trembling sounds of an electro-pop ballad. Addressing a complex and current topic, it's meant to open dialogues and help reduce the judgment felt by those who have the courage to come forward.
CHAPTER 4 : WANNA DANCE
Wanna Dance was the first track to be released, on July 2.
This title specifically sets the tone : it explores genders and calls for tolerance.
Along with an electronic production, Laura’s voice emerges as both powerful and soft. On the edge of sensuality and empowerment, filmmaker Mei Fa Tan’s visual identity enhances the message starring regional cultural actors belonging to this community of which Laura is part. Inspiring and captivating, this track amazes by its impact in terms of both form and content.
"I could share dozens of situations I faced where I was treated differently because of what people thought of my identity. This song is my testimonial, my call for more tolerance and my gratitude for the long way we've already come."
[cf. full text on social media]
THANK YOU
Thanks to the many people and institutions who are supporting this project,
all steps of the project have been made possible thanks to you :
Spring 2020 : write and arrange songs with musicians
Summer 2020 : record songs in studio and contact film maker
Fall 2020 : build up the team and work on the story
Winter 2020 : shoot the movie incl. post-production + mix and master the songs
Spring 2021 : prepare the release, contact PR agents and work on the promotion
Summer 2021 : release the first and second single
Fall 2021 : release the whole project (EP + short movie)
I am truly excited to show you what I've been working on and am very grateful to have your support, thanks a million !
If you appreciate the concept and want to help us make it big, feel free to share the content with anyone you think might be interested.
Follow this adventure on social media !
CROWDFUNDING - WE MADE IT !
From Switzerland, Italy, France, Denmark, Canada, Austria, the USA and the UK ... you've shown support in bringing this visual album to life. Raising CHF 15'000 in 13 days was ambitious... but we made it !
THANK YOU !
I am very grateful to have such a diverse and strong community supporting my musical carreer and believing in it !
The coming weeks are dedicated to the post-production and the search for partners
to distribute and promote the visual album.
I will keep you updated through my social media and newsletter, so follow and subscribe if you haven't yet !
LAURA SCAGLIA
+41 79 776 92 07
SCAGLIA LAURA
IBAN: CH1500767000U54926370
BIC/SWIFT: BCVLCH2LXXX
Bank: Banque Cantonale Vaudoise