An alternate look at Brazil's most famous export, the bossa nova,
Chega de Saudade: History of the Bossa Nova skips the usual
Getz and Gilberto standards to offer bossa performances by the immensely talented figures who are exported slightly less regularly. Focusing on the early '70s and later, the two-disc set benefits from wise compiling, including a parade of great artists with intriguing versions of the best bossas in the history of the style. The female foursome
Quarteto em Cy contributes a sublime "Agua de Beber," master guitarist
Baden Powell shines on "Canto de Ossanha," and Wanda Sá appears on several of
Antonio Carlos Jobim's most celebrated compositions ("Chega de Saudade," "Wave," "So Danço Samba"). Also appreciated are several songs from Brazil's most moving bossa singer,
Joyce, who brightens
Jobim's two most famous songs, "Corcovãdo" and "Garota de Ipanema." ~ John Bush