Vision For Rhythm
Jazzheads, 2020
8/10
A veteran drummer from Brazil who has been doing impressive work in the U.S. for over 3 decades now, Vanderlei Pereira brings his keen attention to rhythm and technique as he shines bright on this first effort with his band, Blindfold Test.
The album starts with the quick melodies of the cultured, flute friendly “Misturada”, and “Ponto de Partida”, an original, continues the playfulness with percussion and piano acting together dynamically with plenty of rhythm and soul.
At the halfway point, “O Que Ficou” benefits greatly from soothing brass in the jazz filled setting, while “The Cry And The Smile”, the album highlight, gets dreamy with wordless vocals from Susan Pereira adding to the serene approach. “Les Matins de Rixensart” then trims the pace back for a key focused execution of vast skill.
Near the end, “Alma Brasileira” moves swiftly with dance friendly instrumentation, and the title track exits the listen with strong drumming dominating the finish, as Pereira displays his incredible chops behind the drum kit.
At a running time of 70 minutes, there’s much to absorb here, but Vanderlei and company’s ability to birth rich melodies, thriving solos and gorgeous scat singing never out welcome their stay.
Travels well with: Jared Gold- Reemergence; Dave Stryker- Blue Soul