This is the Romero Lubambo album you’ve been waiting for. The Brazilian guitarist is best known for his work as accompanist for Luciana Souza; she always gave him a few songs to perform on his own on stage and crack a few jokes in between wonderful displays of guitar sensitivity. His previous releases have all been impressive, but they’ve always been with other musicians. This time, it’s all Romero, and it’s the way it’s supposed to be.
Except for the closing “Laura,” all of the songs are themes from Brazil; many, such as “Insensatez” and “Brigas Nunca Mais” are well known Jobim pieces while others are by artists such as Mario Adnet and Carlos Lyra. A handful are from the pen of the guitarist himself, but it really doesn’t matter; each song is a romantic display of everything that is right about this style of music. The opening anthem “Aquarela Do Brasil” sets the tone with wondrous picking and timing, like a breeze caressing the sea, while “Luisa” displays delicate beauty and sensitivity. He even sings on one track, the genteel “Coisa Mais Linda,” just to give a little variety in the mood, as if we really want a break from the mood of sublime joy. If this doesn’t get into your top releases of the year, you need to see your audiologist.
Sunnyside Records