Plump for cheesy easy listening why not. Laidbackness is hardly an elephant in the room. It’s the main event. German trumpeter Till Brönner like his American counterpart Chris Botti has a glamorous, hugely glossy style. It can be too much and massively bland on an off day. But this is an on day, a Herb Alpert day on some levels – and Italia isn’t dull and hits the bull’s eye thanks to the taste of producer guitarist Nicola Conte.
The band blend in a confection that’s like expensive, extremely delicious chocolate and tastes as delectably. Overcoming over fluffiness Italia grooves because It’s cool dude Teppo ‘Teddy Rock’ Mäkynen at the kit. He makes a big difference stroking this home so impeccably.
Guests include the great Italian Barry White Mario Biondi who is irresistible on Paolo Conte’s 80s banger ‘Via Con Me’ – smooth as a glove like the walrus of love.
Not to be outdone Chiara Civello channels Mina marvellously. Her appealingly elfin treatment of Giancarlo del Re, Gianni Ferrio & Leo Chiosso’s ‘Parole, Parole’ is a must and the Quincy Jones-esque arrangement is so nimble it practically pirouettes.