Record Reviews

FABIO GOUVEA ~ DESVIO UNIT 5149 (Barcode: 7640222861497) ~ BRAZIL ~ Jazz Recorded: 2022 Released: 2024 This is the 9th album by Brazilian (currently resident in Switzerland) guitarist / composer Fabio GouveaFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quintet setting with Spanish vibraphonist Jorge RossyFind albums by this artist, French saxophonist Charley RoseFind albums by this artist, Brazilian bassist Thiago AlvesFind albums by this artist and drummer Paulo AlmeidaFind albums by this artist. The album presents nine tracks, all original compositions by Gouvea. The music is an absolutely delightful collection of strongly melodic themes, beautifully arranged by the composer and brilliantly performed by the above excellent team. Gouvea has an impressive record as a musician in his native country, among others as a member of bands lead by my beloved Hermeto PascoalFind albums by this artist and others. He is also a prolific recording artist, both as a leader and sideman. Although the music has some delicate Brazilian influences, it is not a Jazz-World Fusion outing per se, but rather a first-rate modern Jazz one, with universal aesthetics. Despite the fact that Gouvea is an excellent guitarist, he leaves the center stage to the two prime soloists, Rossy and Rose, who both do a splendid job with their highly sensitive fluidity and sheer virtuosity. The Brazilian rhythm section adds some of the “tropical” spicing, but as already stated, it is far from being dominating. I am surprised that I never came across any of his recordings earlier on and hope to remedy this ASAP. Overall, this is a brilliant modern Jazz album, with excellent music and first-class performances by seasoned musicians. Delicately seasoned by Brazilian music elements, the music flows gently and elegantly for the duration and is a wonderful example of good taste and individual talent by the leader and his cohorts. Warmly and wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 03/06/2024Posted: 03/06/2024

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