A L'Olympia
The Cape Verde diva is captured here in a lush live performance that stays true to the smooth cocktail atmosphere of her studio recordings while throwing in a spice of spontaneity with Evora's outbursts of laughter and slight improvisation. Lovers of Evora's romantic, sultry style will not be disappointed by this elegant album. Such reposed hits as "Miss Perfumado" and "Papa Joachin Paris" ring out in the same plaintive, tropical air of their recorded versions, not to mention Evora's voice, which sounds healthy, full, and gorgeous. In short, this is a fine collection recorded at Paris's renowned Olympia auditorium featuring Evora in a fresh, animated light. The only element the recording cannot capture is the now-famous visual of Evora taking a smoke break at a small table with a lamp and drink onstage while her band plays a lively instrumental number. Fans go wild for this odd but unique ritual, and it's one of several reasons to see this charismatic singer for yourself. In the meantime,L'Olympiais the next best thing.--Karen K. Hugg