Ciao Bella! Italian Girl Singers of the 60s

1960s girl group pop may be most associated with American culture, but its influence and popularity were widespread, resulting in a myriad of international variances and adaptations. This fantastic collection of pop singles from Italian girl groups and singers has all the passion, flair, and sophistication one would expect. From the go-go fervor of Rita Pavone's dance-party classic "Gegheg" to the brooding intensity of Nada's "Pa' Diglielo a Ma'," this 24-track set is exuberant and totally captivating. Full of massive orchestrations and a distinctly '60s verve, standouts like Ornella Vanoni's dramatic "Il Mio Posto Qual'" and Wilma Goich's catchy "Un Bacio Sulle Dita" seem more vibrant and lustful than their American counterparts of the era. Clocking in at a lengthy 67 minutes and 24 tracks, Ciao Bella is all fun and no filler. ~ Timothy Monger