Adriano Santos Quintet: In Session

To say that everybody loves Brazilian music would be too general. But clearly, the sound has a mystique, as so many have embraced it. Percussionist Adriano Santos revisits the music of several Brazilian composers with In Session.

Santos grew up in Sao Paulo and began study at the Zimbo Trio Music School at the age of 12. He continued study at Berklee College of Music in Boston and City College in New York. His professional associations include Astrud Gilberto, Romero Lubambo, Eumir Deodato, John Pizzarelli and Slide Hampton.

Raul Mascaranhas' "Sabor Carioca" brings a vision of fine dining in Rio to life. The high-energy piece is led by alto saxophonist David Binney, with solid contributions from the rest of the quintet. Pianist Helio Alves solos over Santos, bassist David Ambrosio, and percussionist Dende. Near the end of the piece, Santos and Dende enjoy a brief percussive call-and-response with the rest of the band, a brief conga fanfare then setting up a drum solo.

"From the Lonely Afternoons," written by Milton Nascimento and Fernando Brant, begins softly, with percussion and piano evoking the atmosphere of an isolated beach near the jungle. As the tempo picks up, the sax takes point with a charming melody, followed by a strong solo from Alves.

Victor Assis Brasil's "Pro Zeca" is another hard-charging selection. Riveting piano over bass and drums sets the samba mood, with Binney leading the melody and, after a quick stop, a solo that's as engaging as the rest of the song. Alves keeps the mood intact during his turn, with Ambrosio, Dende and Santos complementing the lead with strong accompaniment. Dende and Santos enjoy an extended duet before the song returns to the melody.

In Session is a prime example of why many musicians love Brazilian music. Santos' interpretations honor past performers without losing sight of his own personal stamp.

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