Search - Stephen Bishop :: Romance in Rio

Breezy Bossa Nova Getaway

Scott Gross | Largo, Florida United States | 10/27/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I originally posted this review when this album came out back in 2007... Great to see it finally getting a wider release.



I'm a Musician/Music Collector/Bossa Nova Fan and am not the kind of person that will accept just a "good try" at this style of music. After my 1st listen, to tell you the truth, I must say...



It is ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC.



The new songs are as good, if not better, than the older compositions... It plays like a greatest hits disc all the way through. The arrangements are inspiring... I can see why Bish couldn't wait to get behind the mic and give it his all (which he does magnificently.)



It is a spectacular success in the genre for its understated grace as well as its melody & musicality.



It ALL starts with Bishop's incredible songwriting... Producer/Arranger/Guitarist Oscar Castro-Neves works his magic with the foundation and the results are glorious. Eric Clapton's solo on "Save It For A Rainy Day" is worth the price alone. All the guest artists including Earl Klugh, Kenny Rankin & Luciana Souza truly shine.



It will be THE album to soak in, over and over again for years to come, just like the summer sun.



Highly recommended."

Beautiful....

Adam J. Byrne | Fairfield, CA...Cordelia Villiage | 02/16/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I worked at Target's Music and Movies, Books and Electronics department during the holidays. It was by far the best job I've had, for the friends and the music and movies I bought. One day as I was looking through a pile of dusty CD's I happened to find this newer release in with the rest. They were labeled not on file, meaning it was something the store carried, but no longer did, whether it went out of print, or out of season we just didn't carry it anymore. That means it goes on clearance. I got this album at a steal for 2.46 plus tax. Thinking it would just be some novelty, that I'd play once, I just bought it on a whim. I liked the cover and guesting on it was Earl Klugh, who I Love. and produced by Peter Bunetta, who helped produce Kenny G's Silhouette...What can I say, I'm a 21 year old smooth jazz enthusiast. Anyway, beyond It Might Be You, I knew nothing of Bishop, and thought he was sort of cheesy but took a chance. Am IN LOVE with this record. From first to last everything is stellar. Production, sound quality...he's never been this soulful, or heartfelt. I'd put this up there with some amazing Michael Franks work. They both have the same framework...whereas Franks is sly, Bish is all about Romance. Get this when it is re-released on 2/19/08! Beautiful."