"This is an excellent CD from one of the pioneers of bossa nova. Every song is light and airy and the guitar work is absolutely beautiful. Try to get your hands on a used copy if possible so you can experience this CD."
Indespensible
Shawn | IL United States | 09/13/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I got turned on to Samba/Bossa Nova music by a friend who was really into finger-style acoustic guitar. Luiz Bonfa is one of the greatest guitarists I've ever listened to, and this is one of my favorite of all the recordings that I own. Bonfa has a few tunes that have become jazz standards, but he has many other great compositions some of which appear on this recording.
Bonfa, Cafe, and Gene Bertoncini (who plays second guitar on a few tracks) create a unique sonic landscape that is further enhanced by the terrific sonic quality of the Chesky production. Each piece of music tells a little story, and it's amazing how much music Bonfa can make with such basic instrumentation. Bonfa is such a master of the guitar, he makes every note sound effortless and plays with such a tremendous amount of nuance.
I can't reccomend this one enough. A zillion stars. You may also want to check out Luiz Bonfa's "The composer plays and sings Bossa Nova" also...
Shawn"
Brazilian music at its finest
Lee Whiteside | Dwight, Illinois United States | 11/23/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This music is stunning in its simplicity. The guitar work is masterful, beautiful, and passionate. Anyone who is looking for the best in acoustic guitar should give this a try. Luis Bonfa is a great composer and performer."
Smooth and surprising
Philip Schneider | Florida | 09/15/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"It's nice to hear music by the composer; it gives a new perspective on interpretation. Why more people don't listen to samba, I don't know. Musically it is subtle and interesting. Aurally it is sensuous. Having said that, some of the tunes are a little disappointing. I would have liked to have heard the accompanyment of a bass. Still, for a basically solo performance it is a very pleasing recording.