Oferenda
Anuk, 2023
9/10
The Brazilian drummer Paulo Almeida takes much influence from the rich heritage of Brazil, and this 5th album as bandleader welcomes Lorenzo Vitolo, Devin Daniels, Oscar Latorre, Thiago Alves, Lionel Loueke and Alberto Garcia to the 9 cultured tracks.
“Oké” opens the listen with Loueke’s fluid guitar and vocals alongside Almeida’s atmospheric drumming across the warm melodies, and “Raindrops” follows with Vitolo’s swift keys adding much charm to the unpredictable delivery.
Further along, “Odoya” welcomes Garcia’s cozy percussion for the dreamy climate that also benefits from Daniels’ soulful sax, while “Red As Blood” showcases great use of Alves’ skilled bass prowess amid the glowing brass and agile drumming.
The last 2 tracks are equally memorable, where the intimate “Entidade” makes for a rich and textured album highlight, and “Walking In Peace” exits with an emotive and poetic presence of eloquence.
A very unique listen that’s steeped in Afro-Brazilian rhythm and European jazz flavor, Almeida and company make for a very sophisticated, creative and worldly affair that requires multiple listens.
Travels well with: Joshua Espinoza- Songs For Yesterday; Tigeroak- Living And Living