A champion
of Brazil's African-rooted traditions who has scoured the vast backlands
of his own country and the far corners of the world in search of inspiration
for his constantly evolving artistic vision, Gilberto Gil remains
one of his land's most enterprising musicians. His singing and composing
career in Bahia, the center of African culture in Brazil, began in
the mid sixties as one of the founders of the revolutionary tropicalismo
movement. Tropicalismo, built on an eclectic mix of native and global
influences, turned the conventions of Brazilian popular culture inside
out and created its own language. Gil's quest for new ways to invigorate
his personal take on the sounds of Brazil have led to Jamaica reggae,
African pop music, R&B and rhythmic and harmonic vignettes that
range from Amazonian backwaters to the posh clubs of Tokyo.
Conceived and produced by Rodolfo Stroeter O Sol de Oslo was recorded
at the famed Rainbow Studios in Oslo, Norway with Brazilian singer
Marlui Miranda, accordionist Toninho Ferragutti (currently in Milton
Nascimento's band) and a percussion section from Bahia. In addition
to the Brazilian musicians, there is participation by Indian percussionist
Trilok Gurtu and Norwegian keyboard player Bugge Wesseltoft. Selections
include three songs co-written by Gil and Rodolfo Stroeter and one
by Gil and Marlui Miranda. There are even collaborations with the
legendary composer and arranger Moacir Santos of an unreleased track
titled Santinha Lá da Serra which was originally composed with the
great Vinicius de Moraes and Ciranda composed by Moacir and Gilberto
Gil.
Marlui Miranda's contribution includes her adaptation of chants from
sugarcane workers of the northeast section of Brazil. Among the other
tracks: Lingua do P (Language of the P) is a song composed by Gil
in which all the words start with a "p" and 17 Na Corrente
a great hit by Jackson do Pandeiro. The CD blends the style and energy
of the best of Brazil with top global musicians making this a unique
melding of music. It is certainly the dawn of a new frontier for the
multi-faceted, multi-talented Gil. |
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