Passos Brasileiros
Self-Released, 2024
9/10
A New York outfit with a penchant for worldly sounds, Toomai String Quintet bring us 13 songs of their dynamic string interaction what welcomes a few guests, too.
“Garrote” starts the listen with dancing strings collaborating for much warmth and energy, where the guest Dana Kelley handles viola, and “Saudades das Selvas Brasileiras No. 2” follows with Hamilton Berry’s emotive cello guiding the gracefulness.
Further along, “Cais” makes for a stirring moment, where Alex Fortes and Emilee-Anne Gendron’s sublime violins make an impression, while “Espiral” makes great use of Andrew Roitstein’s plucked bass that suits the mysterious album highlight.
Deeper into the back half, “Domingo no Parque” is a lively selection that balances George Meyer’s careful viola amid the collaborative climate, and “Pintou um Grilo” invites guests Léa Freire’s bright piano and Emma Frucht’s expressive violin to the rich and meticulous track.
A diverse and globally enjoyable sophomore album, Toomai String Quintet recruit a wealth of talent that pays homage to Brazil’s rich musical legacy with plenty of choro, samba, Brazilian jazz, classical music, and Música Popular Brasileira (MPB) to be appreciated.
Travels well with: Pathos Trio- Polarity; Timuçin Şahin’s Flow State- Funk Poems For ‘Bird’