Bellissima: More 1960s She-Pop From Italy / Various [CD]

2019 collection. 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 'E Proprio Inutile' by Meri Marabini and 'Il Beat... Cos'è?' by La Ragazza 77, groovy covers of the Hollies' 'You Know He Did' and Sonny & Cher's 'The Beat Goes On' respectively.