Daniela Soledade: Pretty World

Brazilian singer and composer Daniela Soledade presents her sophomore release Pretty World continuing a family tradition of exploration into light bossa nova music. Recognized as a proponent for a new bossa nova sound, her unique hushed-styled vocals distinguish this singer from the other vocalists of the genre. Born in Rio de Janeiro where the album was recorded, Soledade co-wrote two originals ("Beijo No Arpoador" and "Nothing Compares") with guitarist and producer Nate Najar and sings lyrics in English and Portuguese.

Composed by Brazilian pianist extraordinaire Antonio Adolfo and fellow countryman and guitarist Tibeiro Gaspar Rodrigues Pereria, title track "Pretty World" opens up in a warm-toned fashion featuring Adolfo on piano as the singer delivers the Alan and Marilyn Bergman English lyrics with emotion. The influence of family is strong on this project, as the vocalist includes music from her father, Paulinho Soledade, on the cool and crispy "Winter Samba" and the spicy upbeat "Circo Da Vida," (Circus of Life); as well as one tune from her grandfather Paulo Soledade on the festive New Orleans-tinged "Estao Voltando as Flores" featuring renowned drumming master Duduka Da Fonseca on percussion.

Two other notable tracks include the gorgeous "Como E Gostoso Sonhar" with Patrick Bettison on the harmonica and the Michael Franks standard "Down in Brazil," with the vocalist closing out the music on a short solo version of "Eu Sei Que Vou Te Amar," from her two favorite composers Antonio Carlos Jobim and Vinicius De Moraes.

Making Pretty World a better world in the musical sense is the power-house personnel performing on the album. From guitarist Najar, Claudio Infante on drums to such guest players as Adolfo on piano, trumpeter Randy Brecker, saxophonist Harry Allen and percussionist Gumbi Ortiz, the core quartet and supporting cast provide the energy for this exceptional musical statement. For those who can appreciate the enchantment and splendor of the bossa nova, Daniela Soledade's sound and graceful delivery are wonderfully appealing.