Alcione - A Voz do Samba [1975 Philips] 256 kbps - 70 mb (Reup)

An excellent example of mid 70's Samba at it's very best. This very first album by Alcione catches the Samba movement in full swing. There is not one dull moment on this masterpiece. I could listen to this one twice in row it's that good. Very fleshed out song writing, production & performance by all involved. The very spirit of carnival oozes from every number. Don't miss this. Simply amazing!

File Under: Samba

P.S. Some records are just more joy-filled then others. This is one such item!

Hypothesis vs. Fact?

Hypothesis: There seems to be this really nice dance scene over there in Brasil?
Fact: There is!

A special "Thank You" to Toru Hashimoto (Suburbia Factory) from the Café Apres-Midi series for the inspiration for my Samba series cover art.
Since his compilation has 27 tracks & does not follow the LP's in sequential order, I took it upon myself to correct this oversight by using the 5 X 5 grid & laying out the LP's sequentially & limiting the playlist to 24 tracks & leaving the 25th spot for my logo.

Additionally, every one of the Samba Showdowns will rip as a CD. Those of you with Pods, may you find my issues "Pod-Worthy".

Noriel Vilela - Eis O Ome [1968 Copacabana/Odeon] 320 kbps - 77mb

Here's a very nice example of Samba-Pop from 1968 sung by the rich baritone of Noriel Vilea. Beautiful deep voice & a great set of songs. This spins wonderfully & has a fun, festive vibe throughout. A pretty little record. Enjoy!

File Under: MPB/Samba Pop

P.S. This is a Charles Gavin Re-Master from his Re-Issue series. Beautiful Re-Mastering here.

João Nogueira - E Lá Vou Eu [1974 EMI Odeon] 320 kbps - 93 mb

Excellent early João Nogueira LP for the Odeon studios. Many, many fine tracks here. For fans of this artist. Enjoy!

File Under: Samba

P.S. A giant of Samba-Pop. This recording gets better with each listen. I swear.

Rosinha De Valença - Um Violão Em Primeiro Plano [1971 RCA Victor] 256 kbps - 58 mb

Very nice RCA Victor LP by Rosinha De Valença on guitar running through a sweet set of songs like "Asa Branca" & "Zanzibar" by Edu Lobo, "London, London" by Caetano Veloso, "Mudei de Idéia" by Antônio Carlos & Jocafi to name a few. I don't think this has ever been posted on any blogs, so I post it for your pleasure. Enjoy!

File Under: MPB

Nara Leão - Coisas Do Mundo [1969 Philips] 320 kbps - 81 mb

Gee, this is worth having just for the lovely face of Nara Leão looking ever so beautiful on the cover. Well, she sounds as just as great on this very sweet disc from 1969. This may not be to everyones taste, but it is certainly for fans of this excellent vocalist. I even traveled all the way to Rio & picked this up as birthday present to myself about 4 years ago. Lucky me & you too if this is your kind of singer & her tastes suit your style? This is from the box set & is somewhat rare. Also, great re-mastering on this one. Enjoy!

File Under: MPB

P.S. Nara is in a somewhat eclectic style on her 1968 & 1969 sets. Some will like this? This his two bonus tracks. Adding an extra 5 minutes to this 31 minute recording.

Nara Leão - Nara Leão [1968 Philips] 320 kbps - 73 mb

To go with the other lovely Nara LP. This one is the Japanese issue which always means excellent re-mastering. For fans of this artist. Enjoy!

File Under: MPB