Rising Indie Rock Star Hunters Of The Alps Talks ROMA EP
Mario Giancarlo Garibaldi also known as Hunters of The Alps has been making waves in the Miami Indie-ALT scene for years and finally sat down with us to share his journey through music, the process of creating his latest EP “Roma” and much more. Keep reading to learn all about him and what he has up his sleeve for 2025.
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
Can you elaborate on the concept behind the EP “ROMA” and the significance of the title? How do the themes of memory, aging, and loss relate to your personal experiences?
“Recordar y olvidar memorias abstractas “ or to remember and forget abstract memories are the sum of all the anxieties and fears and bittersweet moments that come with dealing with a loved one who has embarked on an Alzheimer’s journey. I did not know it at the time but I was writing extremely melancholic tracks under the weight of that family event.
What inspired the song “Nada de Mi” and how does it fit into the overall narrative of the EP? Can you share more about the collaboration with Alejo Leon on the production?
“Nada de Mi” came from a feeling of distance with the person I was just a few years ago. Introspective thoughts on weather I would be ok or be cool hanging out or even missing the person I was a few years ago. Prior to my mother’s diagnosis I had a very different view of the future and priorities. I feel that perspective has changed for the better but I wonder who would I be today if those hardships would have been avoided. Alejo took the demo and created a sonic landscape and bedrock that made the lyrics and melodies float.
You’ve worked with a variety of producers and musicians on “ROMA.” How did these
collaborations shape the sound and direction of the EP? Were there any specific influences or inspirations that you drew from during the creative process?
It’s now a trend with Hunters that I seek to collaborate with various musicians and producers because it colors the layers of Hunters in ways I would not be able to achieve on my own. There is constant discovery and admiration for new music and if I had to name a few acts that were heavily on rotation I think Lord Huron, Beachhouse, Slowdive on one end and lots of Piero, Mercedes Sosa and classic salsa and cumbia on the other. Not entirely sure how but I am certain all played a part in shaping ROMA EP.
How has the sound of Hunters of the Alps evolved since the release of your debut EP “Today, Mañana”? What are the primary influences on your music, and how do you incorporate them into your songwriting and production?
I view ROMA as the immediate follow up to “Today Mañana“. They are linked by more than just sounds and production. However, the latest work is a bit darker in a spirit. I am a sad boy by nature, I find pleasure in the gothic side of life, I enjoy music that is meant to make me cry. So when I write, I think I am emoting in the same universe as those idols of mine. It doesn’t mean I am not hopeful, it just means that my hope is wrapped in nostalgia.
Can you explain the appeal of blending baroque pop and tropigoth elements in your music? How do these styles complement each other and contribute to the unique sound of Hunters of the Alps?
I think it has to do with how i hear the music around my vocals. Lots of what I grew up listening to had frontman with baritone attitude and music with ethereal tendencies seem to go well together. Scott Walker, Nick Cave, Dave Gahan to name a few.
How has being part of the Miami indie-alternative scene influenced your music and career? What are your thoughts on the current state of the scene and its future?
Miami, for better or worse, has shaped my desire to be a performer. Buried within the glossy top 40 industry there is an underbelly of creative artists cranking up heroic alt music. I say heroic because it’s known that it will fly under the radar. Miami alternative or counter culture music needs outside help to be recognized so you know most folks are in it to win it out of love for the arts. But it’s changing, and I am glad to be part of that change.
How would you describe your personal style and how does it influence your stage presence and music videos? Are there any specific artists or fashion designers who inspire you?
My style is just honest and timeless. I present Hunters of the Alps as the sum of all my influences, in all aspects of creative process. When it comes the presentation of it, I look at classic moments in music, from Dave Gahan in “Songs of Faith and Devotion” era, to anything western inspired. I piece eras together into one thing. Most of my ideas come from watching movies, from the 50s til the early 90s.
Do you believe that fashion and music are interconnected? How do you use your clothing and accessories to express your artistic vision and connect with your audience?
I believe that fashion is another tool in your arsenal of self expression. As an artist it’s important to me to thematically align with what I am trying to say. I wouldn’t wear anything on stage that I wouldn’t wear to get groceries. But I go get my bananas and eggs aware that I am an artist doing chores. I try to balance feeling like an artist without giving off extra vibes. The music is not for very young ears, the lyrics speak of lifetimes of experiences, and I believe my clothing choices speak directly to my fan base.
Can you discuss the visual aesthetic of your music videos and how it relates to your overall artistic vision? Are there any specific themes or concepts that you try to convey through your visuals?
I have spent a lot of time mining the landscape of Southern California and the southwest. It was paired well visually with my music. I enjoy making certain settings the center of attention and the protagonist of the story. I also don’t particularly enjoy making small movies. Not my thing. I am happy with ethereal clues as to how the videos relate to the songs. I see music videos are twin companions of my music and an extension of the message being conveyed.
What are your plans for Hunters of the Alps in the coming months and years? Are there any new projects or collaborations on the horizon?
2025 will bring collaborations with artists like Gala Brie, La Zorra Zapata, Nina Bosa and a handful of artists from Latam whom I admire. I am working overtime to deliver my debut album. It will be a whole new thing and a pivot from what has been release up to this moment.
Looking back on your career, what are the most significant milestones or achievements that you’re proud of? What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an artist?
Milestones are hard to quantify because over the last 20 yrs I have lived an incredible career that has led me to this moment. The milestone is that I am still here today making music and sharing it. That is the thing I am most proud of. As someone who has also dabbled in artist relations, management, production and other related jobs in music, finding the time and the muse to dedicate to Hunters hasn’t been easy, but I am proud that I am surrounded by folks who understand that and are willing to step in and get to work with me when those windows open up.
What message would you like to convey to your fans and supporters?
One, que todo va estar bien and two, that music is and always will be your place of refuge and if you ever go looking for me for that, I promise I won’t disappoint.
TEAM CREDITS:
Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Writer: Frida Garcia D’Adda (@fridadda_)
Photographer: Lucas Mc Guire (@mc.hanudo)
Creative Direction: Cosmica Artists (@cosmicaartists)
Wardrobe Stylist: Martina Hoyos (@martinahoyos)
