Keyboard wizard, arranger, and composer
José Roberto Bertrami may have departed
Azymuth in the 1980s, but his touch for writing and recording beautifully articulated groove-conscious funky modern Latin jazz continues in the 21st century.
Things Are Different finds
Bertrami in the company of the brilliant and lyrical guitarist
Eddy Palermo, his son Victor on drums, percussionist
Robertinho Silva, bassist
Ney Conceição, flügelhornist
Paulinho Trumpete, and vocalist
Aleuda. The breezy feel of the set is deceptive, given the communication among the players. The interplay between
Bertrami's pianism and organ work and
Palermo's guitaristry is remarkable. Far from feeling like a fresh encounter, the engagement on the title track, "Sweet Papaya," and "Bluff Dancing" sounds like the pair had been collaborating for decades. In addition, the elegant acoustic guitar work of
Paulinho Soledade on "Çeu e Mar" is tight and punchy, offsetting the drum loops beautifully. Gorgeously composed and seamlessly sequenced, this is a summertime smooth jazz record for the ages.