The sextet Terra Brasil, led by brothers Marcelo and Sergio Gomes, guitar and drums respectively, aims to create a Paulista sound, urban music reflective of the energy and identity of Sao Paulo, Brazil’s largest city and the fourth largest city in the world. “Toca Pra Lapa” opens with that most urban of sounds, a traffic jam. Marcelo Gomes wrote five of twelve tunes and several arrangements. There are two vocal numbers, “Venta Sem Parar,” sung by Cida Moreira, and “Trem Bom,” with the voice of Tutti Bae. Almost every tune includes the excellent work of saxophonists Rodrigo Ursaio, who also doubles on flute, and Vitor Alcantara. Their unison intro on “Swing Paulista” sets the pace for this high energy jazz samba. Great drum work by Sergio Gomes. Terra Brasil’s eclectic, polished, vibrant style, in the tradition of MPB (Musica Popular Brasileira), will serve to alert listeners to the very interesting musical sounds emanating from Brazil’s “second city.”
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