Bright and breezy as a tropical daydream, the 11 original bossa novas and sambas on pianist Roger Davidson’s latest release recall the sophisticated early days of small-group Brazilian jazz. Davidson’s expert touch is especially evident in the solo “Soir Bresilien,” a gentle, paper-fragile wisp, while bassist David Finck provides accents of sunshine throughout. Paulo Braga on drums and guest percussionist Marivaldo dos Santos keep the music delightfully rooted in the Bahian sun, as on the deliciously unpretentious title track.
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