Comprising soaring big beat ballads, the occasional
guitar-driven nugget and other feminine pop gems
of the stylish Italian variety, this much-anticipated
follow-up to "Ciao Bella!" (one of Ace Records' best
sellers of 2015) offers further proof that there is
musical life beyond the shores of English-speaking
countries.
? "Bellissima! More 1960s She-Pop From Italy"
comprises an equal mix of superstars and obscure
artists, performing songs of both Italian and
overseas origin. Living legend Mina sings
'Cartoline', one of several numbers custom-
composed by maestro Bruno Canfora to show off
her fantastic vocal technique, and her arch rival
Milva delivers the stomping 'Tamburino, Ciao.',
another top-tier Italian original, while highlights of
the selections by lesser-known vocalists include '
Proprio Inutile' by Meri Marabini and 'Il Beat...
Cos' ?' by La Ragazza 77, groovy covers of the
Hollies' 'You Know He Did' and Sonny & Cher's 'The
Beat Goes On' respectively.