Carlos Barbosa-Lima: Natalia (2003)

C. Michael Bailey

Senior Contributor since 1997

...wants to know if Gene Harris is playing "Summertime" in Heaven...

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Published: April 10, 2003

Guitarist Carlos Barbosa-Lima’s previous Khaeon release, Mambo No. 5 was touted as one of the best releases of 2001. Mr. Barbosa-Lima opts for a smaller group this time, performing many of the selections solo or in duet with fellow label-mates John Benitez or Gustavo Colina on bass. Natalia picks up where Mambo No.5 left off, pursing a twentieth-century repertoire from Central and South America, Mexico and the Caribbean. The common uniting element is, of course, the selection’s heavily Latin character. Jobim, Savio, Lara, Torres are all represented with an encore of the Webber/Rice crowd pleaser, "Don’t Cry for Me Argentina."

Barbosa-Lima’s touch and execution are perfect and empathetic and his duets with bassist Benitez are almost supernatural. This is not "Hot" Latin playing; it is exacting, rigorous, and beautiful. Natalia is sublimely rarified, very highly recommended for any music lover.

Visit Khaeon Records and Carlos Barbosa-Lima .

Track Listing: Ehega de Saudade; Porro; Batucada; Maria Bonita; Frenesi; Natalia; Sigo Pensando En Ti; Danza Characteristica; El Nino; La Reina; Perfume de Gardenia; Lejos del Hogar; Angostura Preludio; Preludio; Adios; Don't Cry For Me Argentina.

Personnel: Carlos Barbosa-Lima-Guitars; Gustauo Colina-Cuatro, John Benitez-Bass; Edgardo Aponte- Percussion.

Record Label: Khaeon World Music
Style: Latin/World