An Unlikely Venue: Where Music Meets Meat

The historic Buccianti Giulio butcher shop, affectionately known as Johnny the Butcher’s, will transform into a vibrant stage for “Rock in the Shop,” a highly anticipated segment of the twenty-first Orientuocchianda Festival.This change, fueled by Gianni “Johnny the Butcher” Buccianti’s passion for music, exemplifies how cultural events can breathe new life into everyday spaces.

Such events are becoming increasingly popular, with similar initiatives popping up across Europe. For example, in Berlin, Germany, a former laundromat regularly hosts underground jazz performances, demonstrating a growing trend of repurposing spaces for artistic expression.

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Headlining this extraordinary preview are two luminaries from the international music scene: acclaimed folksinger Alice Howe and the legendary Freebo (Daniel Friedberg), a true icon of folk, rock, and blues. Their presence guarantees a night of exceptional musical artistry.

Freebo: A Legacy of Rock and Roll

Freebo’s illustrious career spans over four decades, marked by collaborations with music legends such as Bonnie Raitt (as her bassist for a decade), Ringo Starr, Neil Young, and Crosby, Stills & Nash. His talent as both a musician and songwriter has earned him numerous accolades and appearances on iconic US television shows like Saturday Night Live and The Muppet Show.he has also shared the stage with renowned bands such as spinal Tap and the Edison Electric band.

Freebo is a name that needs no introduction. With over forty years of career behind him, Bonnie Raitt’s bassist was for a decade and collaborated with artists of the caliber of Ringo Starr, Neil Young, Willy Deville, Crosby, Stills & Nash, John Mayall, Dr. John and Maria Muldaur.

Alice Howe: A Rising Star Rooted in tradition

Alice Howe is rapidly establishing herself as a prominent voice in contemporary folk music. Hailing from Newton, Massachusetts, she began songwriting at a young age and later moved to Los Angeles to fully dedicate herself to her craft. Her profound lyrics and authentic voice evoke the spirit of the golden age of folk and blues, embracing the sincerity of the ‘Roots’ tradition. Her albums, Visioni and Circumstance, both produced by Freebo, showcase her talent for blending original compositions with timeless classics.

his deep writing and his natural voice recall the golden era of folk and blues, in a style that shocks every artifice to embrace the sincerity of the ‘Roots’ tradition.

Circumstance was recorded within the hallowed halls of Muscle Shoals, Alabama, a location steeped in the history of Soul and Rhythm & blues, where iconic artists like Etta James and Wilson Pickett created unforgettable music.

Local Talent Warms Up the Stage

Opening the concert is The Hani, a beloved local band from Valdarno, known for their energetic sound inspired by Irish musical traditions. Their performance promises to ignite the audience and set the stage for an unforgettable evening.

A Fusion of Culture and Community

This event perfectly embodies the spirit of the Orientuocchianda Festival, where culture intertwines with local heritage and everyday life.The combination of a unique venue, world-class musicians, and local talent creates an experience that is both intimate and grand.