The music sweeps you over like a tropical ocean breeze
11/02/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is arguably the best Samba compilation money can buy. There are a couple of duds, but the rest of the collection more than makes up for the price. Actually, this is the CD that got me interested in Samba. I've come across many other Samba collections that were disapointing and a waste of money. However, this CD will have you humming the tunes for weeks. Yes, they are that infectious! Just when you think you've overdosed on this, come back to it again after a couple of weeks and its like falling in love all over again. This music is litererally theraputic and will put a smile on your face and make you completely relaxed after a day of stress. One important note; if you find yourself listening to the two Beth Carvalho tracks over and over again, it's no mistake because she is the Queen of Samba. and quite simply the greatest living interpreter/singer of Samba music. Virtually unknown in the United States, her music transcends all bounds of what cool and hip music really is. Her music is timeless and thanks to this CD, I've developed a great admiration and appretiation of her music. I now own most of Beth Carvalho's collection of albums available in this country and each one is a gem. So, enjoy this CD because I'm convinced that you'll still be smiling when you're listening to this classic collection in twenty years, and while you're at it, go out and get anything from Beth Carvalho and discover how her music can truly enhance your life."
If one CD's needed, this is probably it
Mr. Stuart Robert Harris | 01/05/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Great CD. Gives listener a taste of all of the sambas out there, from samba enredo to samba bossa nova to samba canção. All tracks are good and the liner notes are a good primer on Brasilian samba."
Good, but I have heard better
Anteh | Boston, MA USA | 06/23/2003
(3 out of 5 stars)
"This is a very good CD that gives you good introduction to samba's sounds. The songs are well constructed and a lot of them are memorable. To my taste, however, I prefer more agressive samba that I have heard on other samples that use a faster rhythm."
A Great, Diverse Collection
M. Lee | Santa Monica, CA | 11/04/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This CD has a good mix of samba songs. It was well thought out and there are many classic songs on here by great artists. Be sure to check out Pagode queen, Beth Carvalho's "Rose Vermelha", Gal Costa's "Aquarela do Brasil", "Conversa de Botequim" by Doris Monteiro, and Leila Pinheiro's "Um Samba"."