Looking for something a little different than the pop played ad nauseum on the radio stations? Are you even paining because of it?

Have no fear, the “Doc” is in…well, doctors. Marco Cappelli [2] and Jim Pugliese are the masterminds behind their hit band Italian Doc Remix (IDR). Their unique sound is a smooth combination of different styles of music. Despite Italian Cappelli and Italian American Pugliese (whose parents who were born in Avellino), their music is not tied solely to a distinctly Italian or Italian American culture but is highly experimental and artistic. IDR is self-described as linking second and third generation immigrants to a strong base in tradition through music, which is what makes them so relevant to the New York music scene because New York is (of course) such a great melting pot of different cultures, backgrounds, and immigrants.Cappelli, who plays the guitar for the band, is the only member who originally knew of traditional Italian songs.

The other band members are composed of New York musicians, including Pugliese who plays the drums and percussions; Doug Wieselman who plays the clarinet, bass clarinet, and tenor sax; Jose Davila who plays the trombone and tuba; and Ken Filiano who plays the double bass. The musicians themselves come from many different musical backgrounds: Wieselman is composing for Nickelodeon’s “The Backyardigans,” Pugliese studied with a music teacher in Ghana for spiritual healing through music, others are Grammy nominees and have been featured in popular Italian music festivals, and most have dabbled in jazz careers. Their uniqueness and individuality make it almost impossible to categorize them into only one specific genre, but their diverse musical tastes and influences come together nicely to make some great music.

You can catch all that IDR has to offer at the Italian Cultural Institute [3], located on 686 Park Avenue between 68th and 69th streets, this Monday, June 30th. Their concert is scheduled to start at 7:00 pm to showcase their talents on their first CD, with special guest DJ Logic (born as Jason Kibler). Tickets are going fast, so be sure to RSVP at (212) 879-4242 ext. 361. Suggested ticket prices are $10 for general admission and $5 for Italian Cultural Institute members.