Joe Carter: 2 For 2 (2004)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: May 2, 2004

As an acoustic duo, guitarist Joe Carter and bassist Nilson Matta are able to interpret Brazilian popular music with a caress and a natural charm. Melody and countermelody intertwine as the pair explores the Great Brazilian Songbook from 1930 to 1960. Soothing and packed full of folk music refrains, the session offers a light mood and plenty of comfort.

”Influência do Jazz” reaches back to Carter’s early collaborations with jazzmen Art Farmer, Lee Konitz, Cecil Payne and Rufus Reid. The guitarist and bassist move up-tempo with a fast samba characterization of bebop’s history. As with most early bop material, this one includes outside quotes that thrill. But it’s the only jazz material found on 2 For 2.

Carter and Matta pay homage to the memory of Brazilian composers. They’re inspired, but cool. Like the cool breeze that comes in off the Atlantic Ocean at Rio de Janeiro, their music floats on high. Passion takes a back seat, as the duo interprets with agile fingers and a comfortable swing. Theirs is carefree music for a Sunday afternoon, sitting in the shade, nestled among the trees, and far away from the crowd.

Visit Joe Carter on the web.

Track Listing: Feitio de Ora

Personnel: Joe Carter- guitar; Nilson Matta- bass.

Style: Brazilian