Cartola - This is marvelous!

After listening to the over processed and rather artificial sound of Abba it was a real treat to listen to Cartola, a 1976 release from Brazilian singer/songwriter Angenor de Oliveira. My smile got bigger and bigger as I listened to two guitarists, a bassist,  four varying solo instrumentalists, and the mellifluous baritone of de Oliviera perform gentle, tender, joyous, and infectious sambas. Each song has one instrumentalist, either flute, trombone, sax or bassoon (!) playing a semi-improvised counterpoint to the vocal line that really adds interest to the music. The guitarists play off one another in an invigorating way, sometimes playing vigorous polyrhythms to great effect. Can you tell I loved this album? I dare you to listen to the first track, O Mundo É um Moinho, and not be so entranced that you listen to the rest of the songs. Other favorites tracks are Minha: Peito Vazio which features a sweet sounding alto sax: the joyous Aconteceu; and the relaxed and peaceful Cordas de Aço. I gave every song but one a 9 or higher rating with five of them getting a 10! Do yourself a favor, pour yourself some favorite tequila or a margarita and listen to this wonderful music making!

https://music.apple.com/us/album/cartola-1976/1444042772
https://open.spotify.com/album/1c1rLO3NkLcGGBQvsp5mzu?si=vhNp3ElFR1yVZmHnAnVCHA

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