Jorge Ben: Jorge Ben (Mono) Vinyl LP

Sixth studio album from Brazil's Jorge Ben. Ben's eponymous release seamlessly blended samba and soul, and continued to set the brilliant singer-songwriter from his contemporaries. With Ben's breezy delivery and softly strummed guitar, the many percussive elements and chanted choruses, we're given the most infectious parts of samba. The soul is reflected in the strings and horns, reminiscent of Motown's psychedelic sound of the late 60s. Ben's refusal to align himself with any of the popular Brazilian musical movements at the time he was somewhat of an outsider. Jorge Ben would change all that as artists like Gal Costa, Caetano Veloso, and many more would cover much of the material on the album. Notable songs include: "Pais Tropical," "Criola" - both of which have been covered by a wide array of artists - and the instantly recognizable "Take It Easy My Brother Charles." Eleven tracks in all.

• black vinyl pressing
• mono sound
• original release year: 1969
• music label: Verve 2018

reviewed by feijoada 08/2018