Search - Sergio Mendes :: Primal Roots

I'm not a big Sergio Mendes fan, BUT...

Joe Sixpack -- Slipcue.com | ...in Middle America | 08/30/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This 1972 release was Mendes' big "I can, too, play traditional!" album... and, boy, could he! A thunderous, kaleidoscopically produced sound with some killer Afro-Brazilian percussion. If you don't want to fool around with the lite pop stuff, but are still wondering what all the fuss was about, then try this one out. (Issued as "Raizes" in Brazil)"

Primal Roots-A Splended Sonic Experience

William L. Phipps | Tuckahoe, NY United States | 12/10/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This cd blends both Brazilian and African-American Roots into one musical form. The songs are splendid and the sound of this cd puts most American product to shame. Again Gracinha Leporace shines throughout. She is Mrs Sergio Mendes but has nothing to apologize for. Her credentials are solid and the entire ensemble has opportunities to stretch, especially in the course of the cd's magnum opus The Circle Game. Special thanks to Japan for including the bonus cut The Crab."

Primal delight from Sergio Mendes...

reading man | 03/23/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Sergio Mendes uses an expanded percussion ensemble, virtuoso flute, and folk guitar to develop an appealing set of Brasilian music. African and Amerindian rhythms form the core, and his ability to blend them into his trademark sound makes Primal Roots special.

Two Brasil '66 standards open. His organ captures the religious invocation in "Promise"; Sunrise", a steady, melodic chant, is powerful in its simplicity. "Canto'', "Iemanja"' and "Pomba" are primal. The tempo is faster, approaching urgency, with male/female voices using call/response and singing/chanting in unison."Circle Game", a series of extended, alternating, abstractions, is the centerpiece, comprising half of the 37:05. He introduces the flute dramatically, followed by a wailing voice. "Circle" bursts into frenetic song, and then slows to a crawl. The flute takes a long solo, with piano and guitar creating a contemplative mood,flute joining guitar as piano recedes, and percussion ultimately adding contrast. The group catches fire, changing pace twice near the finish to play the pulsating bridge of "Primitivo", a 1964 song Mr. Mendes recorded with Bossa Rio. "Circle" flows pleasantly into the tranquil opening of "Promise" in closing. "Crab", full of sunshine and warmth, provides a joyous end.

Primal Roots is the best of all worlds. Whether you have enjoyed Sergio Mendes' music for years, or seek an introduction, you will enjoy."