Under the summer sky of Leverano, the Nuova Area Mercatale transforms into a sonic crossroads where Italian songwriting tradition meets the raw power of global rock. The Big Rock Session gathers musicians and vocalists spanning generations to deliver a setlist that sweeps from Mogol and Battisti to Deep Purple and Coldplay, with Lele Spedicato of Negramaro stepping into the spotlight as special guest.
A Bridge Between Generations and Genres
What makes this concert stand out is its refusal to choose between heritage and energy. The evening opens with the poetic storytelling of cantautori like Domenico Modugno, then pivots seamlessly into the hypnotic riffs of The Doors and the soaring choruses of The Cranberries. It's a rare chance to hear local voices reinterpret the timelessness of Battisti alongside the stadium-ready power of Europe's "The Final Countdown."
The inclusion of Negramaro's catalog—performed by their own guitarist—adds a hometown pride that resonates especially in Puglia. Spedicato's presence isn't just a celebrity drop-in; it's a nod to the region's own contribution to Italy's rock landscape.
The Vibe and the Crowd
Expect a mixed crowd: older listeners who grew up with Battisti's poetry, younger fans drawn by Coldplay covers, and everyone in between curious about Spedicato. The open-air setting encourages a relaxed, festival atmosphere—bring a light blanket or folding chair if you want to settle in away from the standing crowd near the stage. Leverano's summer evenings are warm but breezy, and the mercatale area offers plenty of space to move around.
Food vendors typically set up around the perimeter, offering panzerotti, cold drinks, and local street bites. Arrive early if you want to snag a shaded spot before sunset.
What to Expect on the Setlist
- Mogol-Battisti classics that defined Italian pop poetry in the '70s
- Negramaro hits delivered with insider authenticity by Lele Spedicato
- Rock anthems from The Doors, Deep Purple, Pink Floyd, and The Cranberries
- Sing-along moments with Europe and Coldplay tracks that light up the crowd
- Surprise collaborations between guest singers and the house band
Beyond the Concert
Leverano sits in the heart of wine country, just a short drive from the Ionian coast. If you're making a day of it, visit one of the nearby cantine for a tasting of Negroamaro or Primitivo before the show. The town's historic center, with its baroque churches and quiet piazzas, is worth a stroll in the late afternoon.
After the concert, the coastal towns of Porto Cesareo and Torre Lapillo are less than twenty minutes away—perfect for a midnight dip or a seaside nightcap to close out the evening.