Search - Sadao Watanabe :: Elis

Watanabe at his Best

08/16/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There is usually one cut on a CD that I don't like. Not so with Elis! Every song is a Watanabe masterpiece, displaying his talent and diversity. The music is smooth with all the elements of traditional jazz without being "sappy." With the Latin rhythm gentle and mellow, chosing a favorite cut is difficult, but if I had to make a choice, Paciencia would have to be it... it's one of those songs that lingers in your mind long after you've turned off the CD player and gone on to other things.Considering Elis was recorded in 1988, I'm only disappointed that I didn't buy it sooner. Whether you're into Jazz, Latin music or just love sax recordings, this is one not to miss."

A Must!

E. Laway | Temecula, California United States | 02/01/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've had this CD for over ten years and still play it a lot. Funny, because this is the only Sadao Watanabe CD I own and have listened to ever since. I think because, this CD epitomizes this artist. Every song, every note is just breath taking. And you will get a special treat in track #5 with Toquinho on vocal and guitar. The master piece is ofcourse "Elis," It is so sad and romantic all at once. I believe the singer, Elis, died of accidental overdose by mixing cocaine and vodka some years back. Makes it even sadder because if you ever listened to Elis, her voice is so crystalline and so beautiful. And this is what make this CD even more special. I play it occasionally with friends and at work and everyone stops to ask "what's this? who's this?" not hearing a familiar name, it is followed by "oh, it's very pretty." It is very pretty to listen, I wish more people had the luck to have this CD, it truly is one of my all time favorites."