Press Release from CAM Sugar:
CAM Sugar is proud to present the definitive edition of SMOG: the soundtrack composed and conducted by Piero Umiliani for Franco Rossi’s film of the same name, now expanded with 7 previously unreleased tracks.
Written and recorded in Rome in 1962, the score captures the extraordinary meeting between Umiliani and jazz legend Chet Baker, featuring the iconic voice of Helen Merrill. Blending Italian film scoring with West Coast jazz sensibility, SMOG evokes the alienation and allure of the American dream. As the first Italian film shot in the United States, it remains one of the most refined and visionary portrayals of early-1960s Los Angeles, recently restored by the Cineteca di Bologna.
This new edition is the result of meticulous research and restoration of CAM Sugar’s archival materials, bringing to light a wealth of previously unheard music.
With SMOG, CAM Sugar continues its mission to celebrate Italian film music heritage, restoring landmark works in their most complete form. The Archivio Segreto series unveils rare recordings enriched with studio takes, alternate versions, and insights into the composers’ creative process.
Released for the centenary of Piero Umiliani’s birth, this edition is both a tribute and a rediscovery—featuring exclusive liner notes by Larry Karaszewski and personal memories from the composer’s daughters, offering a rare glimpse into the artistic partnership behind this iconic score.
