Bien Et Toi - London Safari II (EP) + 10 Questions
Picture Credit: Megan Anderson
Grammy and Ivor Novello-nominated producer and songwriter Gianluca Buccellati, better known as Bien Et Toi, returns with his highly anticipated EP, "London Safari II," via AMF Records/Temple Records. The EP showcases a dynamic fusion of genres and features organic collaborations with acclaimed artists, including Halima, Lily Rayne, Paris Texas, and Deyaz.
"I've been working on a continuation of the themes from London Safari and have created this new EP of songs with artists I admire and enjoy working with. London Safari II takes the essence of Bien et Toi to a new level with a fresh vigour and flow," shares Bien Et Toi.
The EP kicks off with “Signs” featuring Halima, and reflects the pre-Bien Et Toi days, with Halima's mesmerizing vocals adding depth and emotion to the soulful track. Watch the live session for Signs here, shot in NYC and directed by Alexander Kumph. "I was feeling inspired by seventies funk and the likes of Parliament Funkadelic and Led Zeppelin. Musically, those influences came out in this song,’ says Bien Et Toi.
Organic collaborations continue to flow through the EP, with standout tracks including "So Long," featuring the dynamic duo Paris Texas and "1 2 3" featuring Lily Rayne. Paris Texas delivers a fresh sonic experience that captivates listeners with its immersive storytelling and infectious rhythm. Meanwhile, Lil Rayne lends her voice to the catchy and sensual "1 2 3," bringing a unique energy to the collaboration. Also, the EP includes the psych-tinged "Reload" with vocals from Deyaz, resulting from an explosive writing session in LA. Each track on "London Safari II" showcases Bien Et Toi's artistic vision and commitment to pushing boundaries, offering listeners a dynamic and immersive musical experience.
The New York-born, Los Angeles-based artist Bien et Toi has been nominated for Grammy and Ivor Novello Awards and won a Mercury Prize for his work on Arlo Parks’ debut album “Collapsed in Sunbeams.” With a portfolio featuring Lana Del Rey (“Lust For Life”), Biig Piig (“The Sky is Bleeding”), Tei Shi, Paris Texas, Declan McKenna, and more, Bien et Toi now marks a shift, pursuing an independent direction to craft a unique sonic landscape.
His recent releases, “London Safari I” and “Voici” EPs, have received critical acclaim and secured features in notable publications such as Clash, GUAP, 10 Magazine, Notion, The New York Times, and more. “Voici” explores a sophisticated, romantic, and dark sonic world, skillfully reshaping traditional electronic forms for a dreamy, soulful sound. In “London Safari I,” Buccellati showcases his artistic strengths, crafting a new sonic experience with intricate production and hip-house vocals.
As Buccellati steps into the spotlight as a solo artist, "London Safari II" marks an exciting new chapter in his career, showcasing his versatility and creativity as a producer and songwriter. With its diverse range of sounds and organic collaborations, the EP solidifies Bien Et Toi's position as a rising talent in the music scene.
Bien Et Toi sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
My love for music really began in my childhood home. My father collected a lot of instruments records and recording equipment. We would cycle through a lot of his favorite bands’ catalogues and learn how to play the songs we loved. Eventually I learned how to jam and improvise which has become the nature of how I like to conceive songs. I was obsessed with putting bands together and studying music and composition in my teenage years. I wanted to have a well rounded understanding of music theory, seeing as I was taught by ear. I started writing songs when I was 10 and haven’t ever stopped.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
What I’m inspired by is always changing. Currently Peggy Gou and L’imperatrice have been at the forefront of what I love most. I also really like Royel Otis, they have a great attitude. COBRAH is an artist where with every release I love her music more. She’s a really consistent artist. The producers who work with her are really cool.
3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?
The next installment of London Safari for the Bien et Toi project is out May 3rd. I’m excited to get these songs out, they were created with a few really cool artists that I really admire that I’ve worked with over the last year or so. I’m already working on the next Bien et Toi project, too. I can’t say much yet but I’ve been feeling really inspired.
White China is my other project, which is more song based, and there is a new album on the way. It’ll be out in July. For me, White China keeps getting better and better. It’s really fulfilling to make songs for this project. There’s more profound and confident energy with this new album and I’m looking forward to people hearing it.
4. How would you describe your sound?
Elegant.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
The EP I released last year ‘Voici’ because it gave me a lot of confidence in terms of going in that more electronic-driven direction. It’s super early days for Bien et Toi and I feel like I’m still at the beginning. For White China, probably the release of the album ‘Hang Up the Lights’.
Picture Credit: Zara Staples
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
There’s a lot that goes down in the music industry so find your community and stay tight. Listen to your intuition. Be realistic with your expectations and have patience. Don’t be an industry plant.
7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?
Soft Loft. Fake a Smile. Oppidan.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
I, Jonathan and Solo Monk.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
I like to stay active by going to the gym. Traveling. I also love to read. I’ve been diving deep into the world of Tolkien.
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
I recently got a Cole Clark guitar while I was in Australia. It’s made out of a redwood tree that fell in Melbourne and it’s got a beautiful bright timbre which I love. I’ve been writing a lot with it lately. My sample library and Ableton, as well.