Mahout’s new single ECLA is out on June 8th. The band, recently signed to La Tempesta Dub label, was formed in the Piedmontese province of Italy, with the precise intention of merging Jamaican-style reggae with other influences ranging from Californian punk to garage to funk. The result is a fresh and personal sound, difficult to trace back to a specific genre, which continuously sways between Brit harshness and softness with overseas roots. 

For this chapter of the band’s very personal journey between their provincial roots and an international sound, they have collaborated with an authentic icon of global reggae music. Larry McDonald is a percussionist who has appeared alongside artists such as Bob Marley, Gil Scott-Heron, Toots & The Maytals and many more. Peter Truffa (Giuliano Palma & The Bluebeaters, New York Ska Jazz Ensemble) also participated in the recordings.

ECLA is a song inspired by the Jamaican dancehall. The lyrics and the poetic intention refer to the consciousness of the reggae music at its origins, an invitation to dance which is not only a relief but also a moment of collective exorcism and liberation from existential oppression. The song describes the chaos of the world, the Bangarang, wonderful and terrible at the same time. In times when the sense of humanity is lost, the only possible direction is to “have respect for everyone”, the closing phrase of the piece.

ECLA (Believe distribution) is available on all digital platforms.