This cover. World, look at this cover! The way everything fits together is nothing short of insane. And the most fortunate thing about this re-issue: The content keeps what the cover promises. Giampiero Scalamogna used to be called the Italian Barry White – obviously, as one might say. »Body to Body« pretty much has it all – wrapped up in only two tracks. The a-side of the same title is an italo-disco-track with no comparison. There must be a reason why it used to be the title song of Italy’s »Top of the Pops«. While listening, it becomes obvious that the genre italo-disco does not refer to a homogenous sound but rather to an attitude towards the genre itself. Strong influences of funk can be heard, as well as delicate, concise basslines, tight blowers, nice strings… and then there is this voice. It’s almost not doing Gepy & Gepy justice when dismissing him as the Italian Barry White. This is something of its own kind – almost sounding like Isaac Hayes. In any case, no one is pussyfooting around: »I wanna feel you« is quite a clear message. This is first-class sex-music, loosened by somewhat psychedelic synth-sounds. A very special track, which the b-side doesn’t have to hide behind, in case you were worried. »African Love Song« is a ludicrous exotica-disco track, introduced by »ooo-oooh-oooh«-choirs, elephant noisemakers and drumming that makes you want to dance immediately. There is the kick drum. A funky bass line on top of the trombone and then the strings kicking in. Idris Muhammad says hello – not from above, but at eye-level. This does not fall short of the superhit »If heaven could ever be like this«, even when the track gets confusing, all be it in the best possible way: »Jungle, Jungle – Magical Dance, Magical Dance«, lyrics from the dada-lala-land. Those taking this too seriously will probably never understand the maelstrom that these kind of tracks can create.
Body To Body
