Bellissima! (LP)

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 'È 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.

The collection is available in 24-track CD and 14-track vinyl formats. The CD version comes with a picture-packed 24-page booklet, while the 180g white vinyl LP is packaged in a heavy-duty sleeve with an illustrated inner bag - each featuring a detailed track commentary by compiler Mick Patrick.