Record Reviews

MARIA JOAO ~ CONVERSA NABEL 8628 ~ PORTUGAL ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 1986 Released: 1986 This is the third album by Portuguese Jazz vocalist Maria JoaoFind albums by this artist, recorded with her quintet, which also includes German saxophonist / flautist Martin FredebeulFind albums by this artist, pianist Peter WalterFind albums by this artist and drummer Peter GroningFind albums by this artist and Portuguese bassist Carlos BicaFind albums by this artist. German percussionist Michael KuttnerFind albums by this artist appears as a guest. The album presents six tracks (one a medley of two songs), all except one composition by Walter originate from various sources. Joao arrived on the European Jazz scene in early 1980s via Germany, with her second and third albums released by Nabel Records and three further albums by Enja Records, which firmly established her career. From the moment I heard her at that time, she immediately became one of my favorite modern Jazz singers, and she never disappointed since, releasing many fabulous albums since. Joao incorporates many World Music elements in her music, including shades of Portuguese Fado naturally, but also South American influences, Avant-Garde and electronics. Her improvisations are simply otherwordly and absolutely amazing and her musicality and aesthetics are extraordinary by any measure. This early album already shows her immense talent and originality, and although she sings lyrics here in addition to vocalese, which is her real strength, the album still sounds brilliant, and despite the fact that it was recorded thirty-six years ago, it can still be considered groundbreaking. Overall, this is an absolutely classic modern vocal Jazz album, which is a must in any serious vocal Jazz collection. The fact that it is still available is a miracle and if anybody is interested (and everybody should be), it can be bought from the label. Don’t even hesitate for a moment!

Updated: 18/03/2022Posted: 18/03/2022

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