The debut release from the I.E. label (which is connected with Polygram) is an unusual multi-artist tribute to the music of
Antonio Carlos Jobim. Some of his tunes are made funky (but in a melodic and tasteful way), while others become quiet (but still passionate) ballads. The treatments are all jazz-oriented, and there is plenty of solo space for the likes of guitarist
Lee Ritenour (in one of his finest jazz efforts), pianists
Dave Grusin and
Alan Pasqua, altoist
Eric Marienthal, bassist
Christian McBride, and tenor saxophonist
Ernie Watts. Plus, there are guest spots for
Herbie Hancock (an excellent acoustic piano solo on "Stone Flower"), the sopranos of
Art Porter (on "Dindi") and
Steve Tavaglione,
the Yellowjackets (who team up with
Ritenour on "Mojave"), singer
El DeBarge ("Dindi") and the vocal duo of
Al Jarreau and
Oleta Adams ("Waters of March" and a lightweight rendition of "The Girl from Ipanema"). Nearly every song holds one's interest, the melodies are celebrated, and the fresh interpretations contain more than their share of surprises. ~ Scott Yanow