On his second LP, Roberto Silva recorded his hits "Normélia" (Raymundo Olavo/Norberto Martins), "Maria Theresa" (Altamiro Carrilho), and other sambas later recorded with success by João Gilberto ("Aos Pés da Cruz" by Marino Pinto/J. Gonçalves) and other artists ("Se Acaso Você Chegasse" by Lupicínio Rodrigues/Felisberto Martins and compositions by Dunga, Geraldo Pereira, Wilson Baptista, and others). Silva's interpretations follow that syncopated method launched by Luís Barbosa and Vassourinha in that rich, potent vocal style popular in the pre-bossa nova period. Backed by a wonderful group including Altamiro Carrilho's distinctive flute, Raul de Barros' trombone, guitars by Dino and Meira, and Canhoto's cavaquinho, the subtlety of the rhythm supports Silva's sweet voice without excess on this enjoyable release.
© Alvaro Neder /TiVo