Unique Brazilian Folkloric/Jazz Vocal Style
02/05/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Well ladies and gentlemen, buying this cd was one of the best decisions I've made this year. It scores 5 stars in many different categories. Mônica uses an approach that reminds me of the South American Folkloric style. Wispy, monotone, and very serious. Combined with the masterful talents of Brazilian percussionist Naná Vasconcelos, you have music full of surprises and full of real stories. Stories that tell of lives and adventures unfamiliar to the average American. This is a true treasure. As an added benefit, there are a few songs that have a very traditional American Jazz style as well. The untraditional instruments and musical mixture take one to new destinations in sound.. All I can say is, "WOW!" The music on this disque will enchant and entertain for years to come.... Purchase this cd without fear, it will not disappoint! Obrigado Mônica!"
The spirit ancestors are calling...listen
Joseph Cigan | Chicago, Illinois USA | 04/29/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"These compositions are of the fabric of soul and weave a tapestry of music that remains in my waking mind long after I've stopped listening. As my attention is diverted to other interests, suddenly and again, these haunting and uncannily familiar melodies resurface and I am once again transported to a time and place imprinted with the dreams and longings of a people that I could never know. Yet, through her music and the contribution of the inimitable musical alchemist Nana Vasconcelos, who is truly possessed of the soul of the "Prietos Viejos" (ancient native spirit ancestors), I am touched profoundly by their folklore and legend, their oral tradition transmuted into precious liquid sound. Atavistic and modern, these musical threads weave through time. From the plaintive and haunting song of the slaves (Canto dos Escravos), through the modern jazz instrumentation of "Tuaregue e Nago'" to the pensive Trampolim, Monica's sultry voice cajoles and caresses one into surrender and compells a sublime awe for her culture. I don't understand Portuguese yet, although it would undoubtedly enhance my appreciation, I still feel irrevocably connected to this music as, I am certain, would anyone else who loves music."
Lyrical, Gorgeous
Eric Crawford | California, USA | 06/23/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is the album that convinced me that Monica Salmaso is the finest voice of her generation. Her superb phrasing is matched by exquisite taste in material: folkloric rhythms and old melodies are granted new life through superb musicianship. Sensual and smart, an album that never panders and always elevates."
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1
