Vinicio Capossela’s ‘Ovunque Proteggi’: A 20-Year Retrospective & Deep Dive

A new book, “La strada di Vinicio Capossela. Un viaggio sulle orme di Ovunque Proteggi,” by journalist Giovanni Ansaldo, offers an in-depth exploration of the making of Italian singer-songwriter Vinicio Capossela’s seminal 2006 album, “Ovunque Proteggi.” The book, published by Nottetempo and costing 17 euros, meticulously traces the creative journey behind the album, a work that fundamentally shifted Capossela’s career trajectory.

A Career Defining Album

Ansaldo immediately conveys his deep admiration for “Ovunque Proteggi,” identifying it as a pivotal work that divided Capossela’s career into “before” and “after” phases. Prior to this album, Capossela had already achieved recognition with “Il Ballo di San Vito” and “Canzoni a Manovella,” establishing himself among Italy’s leading songwriters alongside figures like Guccini, De Gregori, Conte, Fossati and Finardi.

The Creative Process

The book details Capossela’s unconventional approach to creating “Ovunque Proteggi,” beginning with a live performance on a boxing ring, symbolically battling his musical past. Ansaldo’s work functions as a travelogue, following the 13 stages of the album’s creation, from Milan and Rubiera to locations like the Grotta di Ispinigoli, Calitri, Scicli, Capodistria, Treviso, and the Monastero di Montebello, as well as trips to Moscow and Pechino.

Did You Know? The album “Ovunque Proteggi” involved a diverse range of musicians, including Mauro Pagani, Marc Ribot, “Asso” Stefana, and Vincenzo Vasi, alongside magicians, instrumentalists, bands, and traditional folk elements.

Ansaldo’s journalistic approach prioritizes verified information, relying on sources, testimonies, and confirmations. He details the collaborative process, highlighting the surprising harmony achieved among numerous contributors. The album is described as a “nomadic” work, inspired by travel, literature, and diverse musical traditions, born from a sense of creative urgency.

The Impact of “Ovunque Proteggi”

The book explores the challenges Capossela faced following the success of his earlier work, and how “Ovunque Proteggi” allowed him to expand his audience beyond smaller venues to theaters and larger music spaces. Some initial reactions to the album were critical, with some finding it difficult to sing along to, a departure from his earlier, more accessible work.

Expert Insight: The shift in Capossela’s career with “Ovunque Proteggi” represents a significant evolution for the artist, demonstrating a willingness to challenge audience expectations and expand his artistic boundaries. This kind of artistic risk can be crucial for long-term growth and relevance.

The book culminates in a detailed analysis of the album’s title track, “Ovunque Proteggi,” lauded as one of the most beautiful songs in Italian popular music. Ansaldo draws a parallel to Daniele Funaro’s work on U2’s “One,” highlighting the unique creative process behind the song, supported by a private message from Capossela himself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the central focus of the book?

The book focuses on the creation of Vinicio Capossela’s album “Ovunque Proteggi,” detailing the journey and influences behind the work.

How did “Ovunque Proteggi” change Capossela’s career?

“Ovunque Proteggi” marked a turning point in Capossela’s career, moving him from smaller venues to larger theaters and expanding his audience.

What was Capossela’s approach to creating this album?

Capossela’s approach was described as “nomadic,” involving travel to various locations, collaboration with numerous musicians, and inspiration from diverse sources like literature and folk music.

After 20 years, “Ovunque Proteggi” can now be revisited with a deeper understanding, enhanced by Ansaldo’s detailed exploration of these 13 songs of remarkable beauty.