Vinyl isn't just a format; it's a journey. And what better way to embark on that journey than with the timeless masters of Brazilian music? So put the needle down, crank up the volume, and get ready to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Brazilian sounds with Taioba Records.
Moacir Santos: Coisas (1965)
Within the samba lies a world of musical exploration with jazz, and Moacir Santos is your fearless guide. "Coisas," released in 1965, is a kaleidoscope of bossa nova infused with jazz influences and a dash of psychedelia.
Santos was an accomplished classical music scholar, and he was inspired by the opus numbering system of classical music to name his compositions. However, as his works fall within the popular music realm, he decided to identify his creations as "things." Thus, each "thing" (“coisas” in Portuguese) is numbered from 1 to 10 without necessarily following a set order in the tracklist.
"Coisa nº 10" is one of the most experimental tracks on the album. The music is marked by a fast tempo and a dissonant sound that evokes jazz and classical music.
The album is a landmark in the history of Brazilian popular music, as it represents a break with the traditional standards of samba and embraces the experimental and innovative spirit of this genius musician.
Gal Costa: Gal (1969)
If you're looking for an explosion of creativity, look no further than Gal Costa's self-titled 1969 album. With its iconic Andy Warhol-inspired cover and daring musical explorations, "Gal" broke boundaries and redefined Brazilian pop music. The album is considered one of Gal's most experimental and psychedelic works, mixing bossa nova, samba, and rock. Costa's vocals are powerful and expressive, and she often sings in a falsetto.
The album's lyrics deal with various themes, including love, politics, and social commentary. For example, one of the album's most iconic tracks, "Meu nome é Gal," written by Erasmo Carlos and Roberto Carlos, is a tribute to the singer and addresses the issue of prejudice and racism in relationships.
The album is often called "Cinema Olympia" after its opening track. The title refers to the Cinema Olympia, a movie theater in Rio de Janeiro known for its screenings of avant-garde films.
Cartola: Cartola (1974)
Listening to Cartola is like taking a step into the heart of Rio, and his self-titled debut, "Cartola," released in 1974, is a masterclass in samba. The album is considered a classic of the genre and features some of the singer's biggest hits, such as "Acontece," "Disfarça e Chora," "Alvorada," and "O Sol Nascerá." The songs are marked by poetic lyrics and unforgettable melodies that portray the life and culture of Rio de Janeiro.
For example, "Tive Sim" is a love song about the longing for a lost love, and the lyrics mention emblematic places in Rio de Janeiro, such as Largo do Machado. "O Sol Nascerá" is a song of faith about the hope for a better world, and the lyrics also mention Christ the Redeemer, one of the most important symbols of Rio.
Cartola is an essential album for any fan of samba and carioca culture. The album is a vital record of the work of one of the greatest composers in the history of Brazilian music.
João Gilberto: Amoroso (1977)
João Gilberto, the architect of bossa nova himself, released "Amoroso" in 1977 as an intimate serenade and quickly became one of the most important works of his career.
Gilberto's signature whispered vocals and minimalist guitar arrangements bring a melancholic charm to jazz classics like "Bésame Mucho," "Estate," and "S Wonderful." Bossa nova standards like "Triste" and "Zingaro," both written by another legend, Tom Jobim, get fresh interpretations in the mellow voice of João.
João Gilberto's signature guitar dance amidst a vibrant orchestral arrangement on Amoroso, delivering a quintessential bossa nova experience. The album's nuanced orchestration, neither bombastic nor subdued, earned a well-deserved Grammy nomination for Best Jazz Vocal Performance in 1978.
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These five Taioba Recommendations are just a taste of the treasures that exist within the world of Brazilian classics. Each artist and album is a portal to a unique musical universe waiting to be discovered. So dive in, explore, and let the music guide you!
And remember, Taioba Records is your one-stop shop for all things Brazilian vinyl. We curate a meticulously chosen selection of limited editions and classic pressings, ensuring you experience the magic of Brazilian music in its purest form.
Visit our website, browse our catalog, and let us help you build your Brazilian vinyl collection!