Io la schiava ce l’ho e tu (2 LP)

Thanks to the partnership between roman labels and distributors Cometa Edizioni Musicali, Beat Records and Four Flies Records, one of the most iconic and essential works by Piero Umiliani has finally emerged from the archives. Recorded at Ortophonic studios in Rome in September 1973, “La schiava io ce l’ho e tu no” is the original soundtrack of a Giorgio Capitani’s movie with Lando Buzzanca and Chaterine Spaak, widely regarded as one of the most sought-after productions from the famous Italian composer, and whose original LP has now considered as a kind of holy grail among the most serious worldwide record diggers.
The reason is maybe the magnificent quality of the composition and the arrangements, written by the Maestro himself, who reaches here one of his top-level creative peaks ever. His music is the quintessential Italian sound for 70’s sophisticated comedy: an unmistakable flavor now carved into our imagination, blending samba-bossa rhythms, funk guitars, dynamic and airy strings, but most of all, those brilliant choirs, always functional in relation to movie’s mood (performed here by ominpresent Cantori Moderni di Alessandroni in a leading role). Together with the sensual vocalisms of Edda Dell’Orso, they truly represent the identity of an entire genre.
The release of this double LP makes us really proud, not only because it brings to light one of the most fresh and topical soundtracks of Piero Umiliani, but also because, after a long and patient research work, we have had the chance to locate the original master tapes with the complete recording sessions of the soundtrack.
That’s why we are able to present here, in addition to the LP’s original track listing, 23 tracks never before released in any format, revealing Umiliani’s compositional eclecticism and his ability to transition effortlessly from jazz to funk, easy listening to symphony. Personal memories by Umiliani’s daughters enrich this edition through their contributions to the liner notes, giving us a familiar and intimate perspective about the composer’s private life.