Aberto - O Som Do Jazz - Review

by Andy Harrison—

O Som Do Jazz, despite what the name may imply, is not a purely Brazilian affair. A Brazilian vocalist, backed by American, Colombian and Cuban players each put their own spin on the established genre conventions. Comprised of seasoned musicians such as husband and wife duo David and Andrea Moraes Manson, José Valentino (appearing both on the flute and tenor sax) and Tabajara Belo on guitar, O Som Do Jazz has released one fine collection of songs in Aberto that pays loving tribute to the classic Brazilian sounds of Bossa Nova and música popular brasileira over eight carefully composed tracks.

Dynamic and clean arrangements guide Moraes Manson through the songs, as she, taking inspiration from classic singers such as Elis Regina, glides smoothly over the music in clear resonating tones. Said in contrast to skittering drums and feathery woodwinds, Moraes Manson's presence grounds the tracks and prevents them from becoming so airy they're weightless. David Manson's playing is smooth and confident, his trombone providing a colorful counterpoint to the light instrumentation provided.

"Dynamic and clean arrangements guide Moraes Manson through the songs, as she... glides smoothly over the music in clear resonating tones..."

"Andarilho" is worth mention as a standout feature, as Valentino's acrobatic work glides through Manson's arrangement - the players sound as though they're gliding above the clouds, moving effortlessly through chromatic changes and Moraes Manson's clever phrasings. If you have any appreciation for Bossa Nova, baião, the music of Brazil more generally or just good songs, Aberto is a worthy addition to any jazz fan's collection.

AAF Rating: 4/5 trumpets

AAF Top Picks:  Andarilho, Cara de Pau, Soltar Pipa, Passaros