Kenny Rankin's 1995 Private Music debut
Professional Dreamer perfectly captured the essence of a career-spanning 30 years, writing and singing romantic pop classics. This follow-up collection, a decidedly South American-flavored jaunt, maintains the simple production of that recording. It's an eclectic, easily percussive set featuring songs by Brazilian legends
Ivan Lins (with English lyrics by
Brock Walsh) and
Antonio Carlos Jobim, as well as a romantic take on
the Beatles' classic "I've Just Seen a Face."
Rankin himself wrote the sweet and graceful "Lover's Touch," and co-wrote the whimsical title track with famed songwriter
Paul Williams. Recorded principally in Rio De Janeiro,
Here in My Heart features the elegant acoustic guitarisma and arrangement expertise of another Brazilian icon,
Oscar Castro-Neves, as well as jazzy performances by saxman
Michael Brecker,
Don Grusin, and
Ernie Watts and guitarist
Ricardo Silveira. Also on hand are singers
Rosa Passos (who sings in Portuguese as she trades verses with
Rankin on her elegant composition "Those Eyes") and
Bebel Gilberto (daughter of
João Gilberto).
Rankin's adult daughters Gena and Chanda add spirited backing vocals to the album's opener, a festive samba reading of "Come Rain or Come Shine."