Stellar Tribute to 100 Far Out Releases
bordersj2 | Boston | 10/13/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Has it really been 100 releases on this UK label that's focused primarily on the sounds of Brasil. And I must say, of the releases on Far Out Records that I have, I've hardly been disappointed. Time and time again I've checked out an artist off of this label and been pleasantly surprised. From Azymuth to Vertente to their series of collaborations and compilations, this label's had quality 12", tremendous LP's and a quality to the music and musicianship that's amongst the best in the world.
It's hard to call this one a sampler because there's four brand new tracks on this release, starting off with Grupo Batuque's "O Tempo Samba". The cut comes in with a holler vocal & quick samba beat, but then the trademark production/musicianship lifts the cut to another level and sets the mood. The track's followed up superbly by Nina & Chris's (Nina Miranda/Christian Franck of Smoke City fame) "Agua". The song reminds me a bit of the way Nina & Chris worked on Bebel Gilberto's "August Day Song", only this track was far more mysterious and moody with Nina's guiding vocal. It's followed up with a track by Offworld feat. Marcos Valle titled "Black Magic Power Ride"... it has the usual sophisitated Marcos Valle feel that you're used to on Far Out Records. Nice beats, good melody. There are loads of others songs on this that I loved too - like Sabrina Malheiros "Nao Queo Nem Saber" (I don't want anyone to know), Azymuth's Deopis De Carnival, Celia Vaz + A.P.E's "Espada De Prate, Troubleman, Demo... oh heck, just all of em'. Also... if there's one shining light on the CD it's the inclusion of Vertente's "Tanto Tempo" 'unplugged'. The original is a SENSATIONAL track available only on 12" right now with bubbly and adorable vocals and a sweet bossa beat. The 12" has a taste of the Unplugged version here (about 1 1/2 minutes) so it was awesome to be able to hear the entire song.
I HIGHLY recommend this. It's quality, class, and a heck of a tribute and value... I found it at the store for about $9.00! Many tracks featured may be a bit difficult to find today as they are deleted/out of print, adn then many songs you won't find elsewhere - with the exception of Joyce's "Demoro", which was labeled here as an Exclusive Track. That song was actually out on Chill Brazil Vol II although admittedly, that was a far different version than the more live sounding one here. If you like this, definitely check out the other Far Out recordings and artists and keep a look out for future releases. I know Joyce has a new one coming out soon, for starters, adn they're always working on quality new releases and acts."
Track Listings (16) - Disc #1