Mr Borg launched his new CD of Neapolitan songs recorded this year at a press conference held at St James Cavalier yesterday. Recording engineer Roger Tirazona and mandolin player George Curmi “Puse” also addressed the activity.

Carmelo Borg said that he still felt he had something to contribute while he was in the autumn of his life and also declared his unstinting passion for the Neapolitan song genre. He praised the recording techniques of Roger Tirazona and added that George Curmi “Puse” was instrumental in creating the right atmosphere on the CD that almost seemed to have come from Naples itself. Mr Borg concluded by urging other veteran artists to record their voice on CD so that the older generation of singers would be represented and remain as an icon for younger musical fans and artists.

Mr Tirazona described the fastidious recording process used and also commended Carmelo for his professionalism and knowledge that were amply demonstrated in the authentic sound of these classics. Mr Curmi added that he was thrilled by his experience in playing the mandolin and confirmed that the Neapolitan genre was something that he loved deeply and was honoured to be able to perform.

The CD contains well-loved classics such as Funiculi, Funicula, Santa Lucia, Torna A suriento and O sole mio and is obviously recommended to all lovers of the genre who must be quite numerous on this island.