Great Hits Of Our Time: A Retro Gem That Still Swings
Let’s talk about Great Hits Of Our Time by Rio Gregory Und Sein Orchester, featuring the vocals of Patsy Brown and Luigi Della Vigna. This 1955 Swiss release under the Varieton and Grammoclub Ex Libris labels might not be on everyone’s radar today—but it should be. With its mix of jazz and pop vibes, this album feels like a warm cup of coffee on a chilly morning: comforting, nostalgic, and full of character.
The cover art, credited to Stieger, has that mid-century charm—simple yet striking. But let’s dive into what really matters: the music. Tracks like Moulin Rouge and Vaya Con Dios stand out for me, and here's why.
Moulin Rouge, kicking off side A, grabs you right away with its lively brass section. It’s the kind of tune that makes you want to twirl around your living room (even if you’re just pretending). The orchestration is tight, and Patsy Brown’s smooth delivery adds an extra layer of class. You can almost picture yourself in some smoky European club back in the day, sipping something fancy while the band plays late into the night.
Then there’s Vaya Con Dios. Oh man, this one hits different. It’s slower, more reflective, but still packs an emotional punch. There’s something about the way the strings swell behind the melody—it gives me goosebumps every time. Plus, Luigi Della Vigna’s voice on this track? Pure velvet. He doesn’t overdo it; he lets the song breathe, and that restraint makes it unforgettable.
Of course, we can’t skip tracks like Tutto E Possibile or Anema E Chore, which bring their own flair to the table. Each song feels carefully crafted, blending Rio Gregory’s sharp arrangements with the vocalists’ charisma. And hey, who wouldn’t love hearing “Eternally” from Charlie Chaplin’s Limelight reimagined in such a jazzy style?
What’s wild is how fresh this album still sounds after all these years. Sure, it’s got that vintage vibe, but the energy and emotion are timeless. Listening to it feels like stepping into a time capsule—and honestly, isn’t that what great music’s all about?
Here’s the kicker though: I had no idea Switzerland was making albums like this in the ‘50s. Like, between chocolate and watches, they were also laying down killer jazz-pop records? Mind blown. So next time you’re hunting for something new (but old), give Great Hits Of Our Time a spin. Trust me, your ears will thank you.
