"One of the key reasons for Marcos Valle's devoted cult following, this 1973 effort incorporates moogs, synths and Rhodes piano (courtesy of then-unknown backing band Azymuth) to Valle's catchy and meticulously-written songs. The result, as heard on funky groovers like the classic "Mentira" and the subtle, pulsating "Não Tem Nada Não," proves him to be one of the most innovative artists of his era, Brazilian or otherwise. His bossa background can always be heard somewhere in the mix, and one of the album's most endearing qualities is the combination of quirkyness and accomplishment heard throughout. His mastery of light, catchy pop themes filtered through classical training values also sets this album apart. Samples abound, for those so inclined, and the writing overall is very strong, making this among the better introductions to the pleasures of Marcos Valle."
Good 70s Brazil Specimen
Matt M. Bryant | Chicago, Illinois | 02/12/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I picked up this album on the recomendation of a friend and it doesn't disappoint. Unfortuately I do not have it in front of me, so I am unable to reference specific songs. It has a similar vibe to it as Jorge Ben's classic Africa Brasil LP, however this disc is a little more lounge-y and less urgent sounding than Ben's masterpiece. Plenty of creative and funky arrangements in this music, with "shoop-a-doop" style choruses and foot tap-able beats. Very much in the style of Cassiano and Tim Mais' work. A word to the wise, however: Marcos Valle's work is realy hit or miss. I picked up a Japanese import of his at the used disc store and it was this real schmaltzy crap I wouldn't recommend to anyone. Make sure you listen to his other discs before you buy them."
A Brazilian music classic
TheQuietCritic | Maryland | 07/10/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This CD is wonderful. There are very few CDs that you can listen to all the way through and enjoy every song, but this CD is one of them. I particularly like the first song, "Flamengo Ate Morrer", a song with an elctrified bossa groove, "Mentira", a downright funky number with horns and some catchy wah-wah guitar riffs, and the last song, "De Repente, Moça Flor", a ballad which is beautiful without descending into schmaltz. However, my favorie song is without a doubt "Não Tem Nada, Não", a pulsating, cool groove with a boogaloo/cha-cha feel and awesome Fender Rhodes chords. I find this song so addictive that I often play it twice when listening to the CD. Maybe you will too. Anyone who wants to check out Brazilian music beyond bossa nova and samba, or just wants to hear something cool, should check out this CD."
Masterpiece of 70's brazilian soul
Sebastien Micheletti | France | 12/01/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I love everything that Marcos Valle has written or recorded but this is the real deal for 70's brazil groove fans. It has got plenty of nice layers of fender rhodes and moog synthetisers and all songs are killers.
A cult album without hesitation. Then i advise you to keep on digging and enjoy 'Garra'."