Lado B Brazilian Project 2
Sunnyside, 2025
9/10
Listen to Lado B Brazilian Project 2
Catina DeLuna’s vocals and Otmaro Ruiz’s keys are joined by an all star band and many guests for these 10 obscure Brazilian tunes and creative interpretations of some classics.
“Passarim” opens with DeLuna’s expressive voice alongside Larry Koonse’s warm guitar and Ruiz’s graceful keys, and “Mar E Lua” follows with Bob Sheppard’s dreamy winds that suit the poetic singing and intimate mood.
Halfway through, “Choro Das Águas” welcomes Bruno Mangueira’s cozy acoustic guitar to the soft melodies, while “Águas de Marco” enlists Jimmy Branly’s Udu Clay Pot via the rich and charming delivery that employs scatting, too.
Further still, “Aluviao” benefits from Portuguese backing vocals that complement DeLuna’s emotive pipes and Ruiz’s meticulous keys, and “Vatapá” exits both talking and singing amid the animated piano.
A highly memorable effort that balances simple versus complex ideas, DeLuna and Ruiz illuminate these B-side cuts with a timeless, cultured and infectious spirit.
Travels well with: Antonio Adolfo- Carnaval- The Songs Were So Beautiful; Saul Dautch- Music For The People