Brasilidade
Bossacucanova's debut,Revisited Classics, was proof that samba and bossa nova are timeless music. There's more of the same on their sophomore release, but the addition of bossa original Roberto Menescal brings added authority to a sound that can add subtle dance-floor beats and textures to the work ofJobim(including a very soulful take on "The Girl from Ipanema," or "Garota de Ipanema," as it's called here) and theTamba Trio. It's all done so well that telling the difference between the vintage tunes and modern originals is impossible, while the programming seamlessly gives some gentle, funky oomph to the innately irresistible rhythms. Singer Cris Delano offers some sensual vocals to make the hips glide, sailing over languorous melodies. It's all as relaxing and warm as a day on the Rio beach. The song might not remain the same, but the feeling is eternal.--Chris Nickson