Factory Spizzichino
This was something I was REALLY looking forward to - a chance to visit my dear friend
Roberto on his home turf and see the place where this Italioan master works.
OT: THIS is the 1 Series hatchback that BMW USA is NOT bringing over.
I'm sorry BMW, you make great cars but your USA office is on 'ludes.
WAKE UP!
The view behind Roberto's shop
The humble facility that serves as the home to one of the finest artisans to ever put hammer to metal.
Roberto is an excellent player as well - it was great watching him play!
A portrait of the artist
Roberto's self made kit. These sounded fantastic.
If there is one thing I can share with you about the artist - my friend - it's that he has a deep appreciation for
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that which he often feels others would find...unaesthetically pleasing. In turth, I find such things as refreshng as he does.
Roberto's snare drum
The vault
Some might say...heaven!
Roberto's anvils
Mason discovers the Turkish toilet.
Roberto's personal collection of vintage cymbals, many of which serve as his sonic templates
...and suddenly, I see it...
A china. A Spizzy china. I pick it up. Its heavy...for a china. it has the most peculiar profile, unlike anything I have ever seen. I strike it with my hand...it purrs...deep, rich, complex. A wolf in sheep's clothing. I turn it over. There written in marker the words "The Beast". Roberto says he made it for his son - heavy, because Rubin plays heavy music.
I want to ask, but I cannot....
Roberto says "You want it, I know...it is yours."
In an instant I am holding one of my most treasured possessions -
a gift from my friend. I am speechless...
The Beast
Check out the profile on this masterpiece - there is a bell, but it is so sublte.
It has an incredible ride feel with postive stick definition. It crashes huge, but it's very easy to control.
And with that we bid farewell to Roberto and Factory Spizzichino.
Many thanks Roberto. We are truly honored and I will visit again soon!
We drive through the night and stop for the evening in Genoa, home of Chris Columbus.
A room with a view....
One of the best things about Italy is that it is impoosible to find a bad cup of
Joe and equally impossible to pay more than 1 Euro for a great cappucino.
It made my Tim'swithdrawl a little easier.
Tuscany in our rear view mirror, we head for home after one last look....
Crazy Italans...
