by Vince Lewis
Along with Antonio Carlos Jobim, João Gilberto and a handful of other young composers, Oscar Castro-Neves emerged in the early 1960s as one of the founding figures of the musical movement that became known worldwide as Bossa Nova. In 1962, a year before “The Girl From Ipanema” became a Top 10 hit, he helped lead the bossa nova invasion of the U.S., playing a central role as a performer and accompanist for other noted Brazilian musicians at the historic presentation of Brazil’s new music at Carnegie Hall. Since then, his distinguished career has included performances with Stan Getz, Sergio Mendez, Yo Yo Ma, and even Michael Jackson and Barbara Streisand.
Oscar Castro-Neves - Live at Blue Note Tokyo
On this live recording, entitled Live at Blue Note Tokyo, Castro-Neves is surrounded by experienced, world class musicians. The band is comprised of Airto Moreira (drums, caxixi, vocals), Leila Pinheiro (vocals), Marco Bosco (percussion, voice effects, birds, kalimba), Paulo Calasans (acoustic piano, keyboards) and Marcelo Mariano (bass). The players are perfectly in sync throughout, and each arrangement flows effortlessly while allowing room for improvisation.
The opening track is “Ela E Carioca”, an upbeat Jobim bossa. Castro-Neves solo on nylon guitar is solid and sets the tone for the evening. His vocal work is enchanting in its phrasing and natural charm. “Ponteio” introduces vocalist Pinheiro, who has an energetic and rich quality. The solid samba feel gives the group a chance to float over the excellent rhythm section. Castro-Neves composed the jazz waltz “My Sweet Sweetiepie,” which has a catchy melody and features his guitar and an interesting piano solo from Calasans. Other originals by Castro-Neves include “Rio Dawning” and “Chora Tua Trieteza.” Additional Jobim tunes are represented by “Waters Of March,” and a lightly swinging Pinheiro vocal on “Domingo Azul Do Mar / Fotografia.”
Moriera is featured on his composition “Caninana.” His legendary prowess as a percussionist is on full display as well as a very impressive vocal performance. A haunting “Tatiando” comes from the pen of Bosco and opens with a free flowing guitar backed by synth strings and bird sounds. The Luis Bonfa classic “Manha De Carnival” begins with a chord melody stated slowly by Castro-Neves. He is joined by vocalist Pinheiro and the band in a quick samba feel.
Fans of Brazilian jazz and nylon string guitar will find this to be a welcome addition to their music collection. The energy and interaction of the players creates an enjoyable listening experience. Live at Blue Note Tokyo is a mix of well known melodies and original material that keeps things interesting throughout.
Pat Kelly (12 years ago)
You go Oscar !