It’s releases like this that make me thank God that the World Cup wasn’t being held in Germany this year. In celebration of the famed Cup being played in Brazil, a ton of labels are releasing Brazil and Bossa music-this one is probably the best.
Two discs, 87 songs by the likes of Gilberto, Bonfa, Getz and Miles for just beginners, and then clever entrees such as Cannonball Adderley and Ike Quebec just to keep you on your toes. Late 50s essentials sjuch as “Chega de saudade” by Jobim and Gilberto introduced the wonderfully nasal voices and quiet chords from their guitars, thereby changing the world forever. Instrumentals like Luiz Bonfa’s “Eurydice” are delicate bon bons, while a simple piece like “Dum..dum…” has Baden Powell saying more in 1 ½ minutes than Michael Buble’ has yet to. Charlie Byrd’s guitar on “ Ciume” is a swondeful joy, while the bluesy tenor from Quebec on “Loie” with Kenny Burrell is a late night smoky classic. Even if you have many of these tunes, listening together like this in one sitting is something that will make your day worthwhile.
Le Chante Du Monde/Harmonia Mundi