One of the aspects that gives music its inherent beauty lies in the universality it can enfold. When the players have empathy for, and the sensitivity to mould, the different strains, the experience can be compelling. Britos has that perception. He melds jazz and candombe, which is an African derived rhythm that has been part of Uruguayan culture for two centuries; but he takes his conception even further. Derivatives of the melody and the harmonic concept of “Malungo” can be heard in songs composed in Goa, India, which in turn has its heritage in the music of Portugal.
Britos is a deeply passionate player, constantly churning up excitement during the quietude of a ballad or in the frenzy of a swinging tune. His tone is deep and warm, the nuances captured with delicate precision. His classically intent solo outing “Canción De Cuña” is a stunning piece of sustained lyricism. In the mainstream of jazz comes “Palermo,” with a nod to Ellington that makes swing come alive.
Britos finds a kindred spirit in Simon Saltz, whose guitar shapes melody with an understated grace. Saltz’s delicate air is the prime force on “Una Lagrima,” an achingly beautiful ballad. The art of the ballad is also spelt compellingly on “Cuareim”, where the piano of Novas entwines with the violin in gentle conversation.
The music on Candombe & Jazz, delicate and joyous by turn, makes listening a resounding pleasure!
Track Listing
Ansina; Malungo; Luna Dorada; Cuareim; Montevideo-Miami; Una
Lagrima Cae En El Rio; Musica Para Un Cuadro; Palermo; Cancion De
Cuna; Punta Del Diablo; Isla De Flores; Mercado Del Puerto; La Ciudad
De Los Tamboriles; Candombe Dombe
All About Jazz has been a pillar of jazz since 1995, championing it as an art form and, more importantly, supporting the musicians who create it. Our enduring commitment has made "AAJ" one of the most culturally important websites of its kind, read by hundreds of thousands of fans, musicians and industry figures every month.
You Can Help
To expand our coverage even further and develop new means to foster jazz discovery and connectivity we need your help. You can become a sustaining member for a modest $20 and in return, we'll immediately hide those pesky ads plus provide access to future articles for a full year. This winning combination will vastly improve your AAJ experience and allow us to vigorously build on the pioneering work we first started in 1995. So enjoy an ad-free AAJ experience and help us remain a positive beacon for jazz by making a donation today.
We sent a confirmation message to . Look for it, then click the link to activate your account. If you don’t see the email in your inbox, check your spam, bulk or promotions folder.