A Kiss For Brazil
Origin, 2024
8/10
The esteemed vocalist, pianist and percussionist Karrin Allyson adds to her catalog of Brazilian sounds with these 10 adventurous tracks that recruit Rosa Passos, Vitor Goncalves, Yotam Silberstein, Harvie S and Rafael Barata.
The playful and cozy “Flor de Lis” begins the listen with Silberstein’s warm guitar and Barata’s frisky drums that complement Allyson’s flowing vocals, and “Month Of March In Salvagor (Dunas)” continues the worldly flavor via Passos’ fluid rhythm guitar and Goncalves’ well timed accordion.
The middle spot belongs to the charming scatting of “Antigua”, where S contributes meticulous bass for the dreamy landscape, while “The Island” benefits much from Goncalves’ stirring keys that suit the intimate singing of the album’s best.
Arriving close to the end, “So Many Stars” tugs on the heartstrings thanks to the powerful vocals and Allyson’s elegant keys, and “Only Trust Your Heart” exits with Allyson’s gorgeous pipes and emotive piano making for a memorable, relatable finish.
It’s certainly not shocking that Allyson has received 5 Grammy Nominations, and along with this excellent cast she pens a love letter to Brazil that’s full of sincerity, grooves and sonic exploration.
Travels well with: Angela Verbrugge- Somewhere; Ben Patterson Jazz Orchestra- Groove Junkies