Search - Sergio Mendes & Brasil 66 :: Fool on the Hill (Dig)

The beginning of a 40-year-love affair with Mendes's sound

Reginald D. Garrard | Camilla, GA USA | 06/10/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Besides being the first Sergio Mendes album in my collection, "Fool on the Hill" is probably the SECOND album that I ever bought with my hard-earned 1960's allowance.



That said, the release remains one of my favorite of both my childhood and adult years. With two hit covers (the title cut and "Scarborough Fair), along with scorchers like "Laia Ladaia (Reza"and "Upa, Neguinho," the album is just as exciting today as it was four decades ago. Though the latter tracks are sung in Spanish, that fact is not a deterrent to appreciating and enjoying them and others.



However, the best track is the ballad "When Summer Turns to Snow." This is an evocative tune and offers Mendes one of the few times he has taken the lead vocals...and he does a darn good job at it, too!"

The great sound of Brasil '66 continues

Gregg B. Holycross | Granger, IN USA | 01/16/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Fool On The Hill" was the 4th album released by Sergio Mendes with this red hot group Brasil '66, but the first album to feature the almost totally new group lineup. Some time after the release of "Look Around", Sebastaio Neto replaced Bob Matthews on bass, Rubens Bassini replaced Jose Soares on percussion, Dom Um Romao replaced Joao Palma on drums and Karen Philipp replaced Janis Hansen on vocals. Only vocalist Lani Hall remained of the original group. Even with all the changes, the great sound of Brasil '66 continued without so much as missing a beat. This album features two of their biggest hit singles, "Scarborough Fair" and, of course, the title song. "Festa" is a great uptempo number which higlights the talents of all the group members. "Casa Forte" will have you dreaming of warm Brazilian beaches, while Lani Hall's searing vocal solo on "Canto Triste" will give you chills. "Lapinha" gave us a preview of what was to come with an excellent vocal track by Gracinha Leporace, who later replaced Lani Hall when Lani left to pursue a solo career.



From the first note to the last, this album will take you on a musical trip to warm, sunny places. Put it on, sit back and let your mind take you to new places. You won't be disappointed.

"

Still going strong!

Ray | perth west australia | 06/28/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I really like this band from the beginning they are so professional and what a great sound even now this cd sounds as if it was recorded yesterday, a really good quality recording. Top musicians."