The Piaggio Soul Combination

“Space Diary” b/w “Dimmelo”

When The Piaggio Soul Combination recorded a few songs with legendary Italian guitarist Dome Le Muerte, they knew he would bring his psychedelic brilliance to the mix. And he did. So much so, in fact, that Space Diary didn’t quite fit the vibe of their recent album and found its way instead to the lysergic sanctuary of Hypnotic Bridge Records.

Dome's trebly, tremolo-barred chords are reminiscent of John Cipollina's work with Quicksilver Messenger Service (which with tracks such as Dino’s Song also embraced the concept of a "new breed leaving for unknown shores"). But the sound of the 1967 Satanic Majesties-era Rolling Stones serves as the greatest inspiration for Space Diary, both in the song’s "space journey" topic as well as the massive use of Mellotronic flutes, violins and horns.

Songwriter Marco Piaggesi put his ambient sensibilities and dreams of “escaping Earth” to use, too, adding a sly key shift to emphasize the transition from our galaxy to ones beyond.

Dimmelo was inspired by The Open Mind’s Free As The Breeze, with The Piaggio Soul Combination adding Indian flavors and a Kula Shakeresque “Delhi disco” beat to give the song an undeniably global feel and appeal.

Guest vocalist Marina Mulopulos entered the band’s circle when she taught band leader Marco Piaggesi a type of vocal therapy in which certain breathing exercises and sound pronunciation techniques are used to expand consciousness and awareness. The song’s lyrics are about a therapy session in which the subject finally overcomes past traumas to reach a “here and now” presence.

A 1974 Fender Precision bass and a 1975 Fender Bassman amp brought just the sound the band was going for (after finding the elusive bass line). In the song’s middle section, Marina showcases her amazing vocal harmonies while the reduction of reverb to an almost dry feel in the finale suggests the closeness the student, Marco, felt with his teacher, Marina.

Acid Jazz Records artist Andy Lewis (known for his work with Paul Weller, Pimlico, Spearmint, et al) produced Space Diary, while Sandro DelCarratore produced Dimmelo.

Singles are pressed on 7-inch, 45 rpm vinyl records.