Newpoli is a group of exceptionally talented musicians, all alumni from Berklee College of Music, New England Conservatory and Longy School of Music, who specialize in Southern Italian Folk Music from the regions of Campania, Calabria, Basilicata and Puglia. Newpoli integrates a wide variety of styles such as Tarantella-Pizzica, Tammuriata, Villanella, Moresca and the Neapolitan Canzone, encompassing music from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Founded in 2003, Newpoli is an eight-piece ensemble that has performed throughout the United States and in 2008 made their European debut at Diacetum Festival in Tuscany, Italy. Joining Newpoli on this CD is multi-instrumentalist extraordinaire John La Barbera. “..the songs are fueled by Rossi's and Marsico's strong, bright voices, which carry both soulful emotion and powerful belting.” - Palo Alto Weekly “You can hear driving 6/8 African rhythms, Arabic-tinged percussion, and Middle Eastern minor modes all through Newpoli.” - Boston Phoenix 2009 "Cultural influences create an eclectic blend of sounds" - Arizona Daily Star "Newpoli puts fresh spin on Italian folk tunes!" - Boston Herald "One of the most unusual bands in town!" - Boston Phoenix 2008 “I can recommend (the CD) with a clear conscience to anyone who is favorably disposed to the Taranta!” - Mazz Musikas, Belgium “Neopolitan folk roots played with gusto..” - KZSU radio, Stanford “"A $10 trip to Europe! Here's a great way to transport yourself to Southern Italy without worrying about the exchange rate - or a plane ticket." - Boston Globe ““Great southern Italian roots and gypsy influences.” - WWVH radio, Hartford “…the talent of the musicians is undoubted…” - Folk World, Germany "Italy took the stage with a dramatic rendition of traditional southern Italian songs..." - by Kerry Malloy, Berklee College of Music Correspondent