Search - Various Artists :: Brazilian Groove

Brazza jazza cool

Savka | Vancouver, Canada | 03/28/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I definitely don't agree with the reviewer who gave this album only 2 stars. Perhaps I'm not as much of a connoisseur of Brazilian beats as they are, but I still have a pretty good ear when it comes to appreciating a solid album, and this one was definitely solid (albeit a little too short). It's too bad the critical reviewer didn't recommend an alternative album, being such an expert and all.This is a smooth and seamless compilation of contemporary Brazilian beats, with elements of funk, lounge,jazz and electronica melded together with the classic Brazilian styles of samba, samba-cancao (singing samba) and bossa nova as well as western pop styles. The album has a great atmosphere, conjuring up the cool and subtle sensuality that Brazilian music has long been prized for, but with funky beats and basslines to give it a contemporary edge. The opening track (Maria Moita) pairs a sinuous catchy melody with a jazzy retro feel and starts the album off with a bang.
Other great contributions are Outro Lado (very cool and melodic), Lagoinha, Mas Que Nada (a beat-driven remake of the 60's classic), Laura (a delicate love song) and Coco do Mundo, which has a trippy syncopated beat and lyrical pattern to match.Overall, Brazilian Groove is deliciously sunny compilation, something you can dip into anytime for a bit of lightening up. However, there is a caveat: this album is not very heavy on electronica, so if you're into that, check out Sao Paulo Confessions by Suba, the ultimate in Brazilian electronica. If you're new to this whole thing and want an overview of all areas of Brazilian music today, check out The Now Sound of Brazil, a more wide-ranging compilation than Brazilian Groove, which includes the wonderful sounds of Bebel Gilberto, Cibelle and Suba."

F A N T A S T I C...................

Papetti | Mexico City | 02/10/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a great CD whether you are an "expert" in Brazilian beats or a new comer; I don't agree either with Ms. Katayama and I have a considerable huge collection of Brazilian musics.

Each collection or style of music needs to be compared to its own context, and this CD is great in showing us new styles coming out of Brazil. Just listen to the great cut "Linda Cancao" and then you tell me what you think about it; that song alone makes this CD worth your time and money. Viva Brasil!!!!!!!!!!"

Groovelicious

Alex | Japan | 10/04/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Despite this album being a touch on the short side (a little under 50 minutes and the only reason I give it 4 stars) it still has so much to offer.
Beginning as it means to go on, "Maria Moita" is a drum and bass influenced track that gets you in the Brazialin mood, and urges you to listen on and allows you to gain an insight into beautiful Brazilian funky soul.
There are elements of hip hop and electronica as well as traditional Brazilian rhythms to provide a sensual backdrop to the start of any and every evening.
I really do recommend this compilation as a way to see how Brazil has shaped the music we listen to today - for me it was an education and a non-stop ride down to the sunny parts of Brazil through a magical musical journey!"