Marco Pereira - Essence (2007)

Marco Pereira is one of the foremost interpreters of Brazilian music; on this studio session the talented guitarist covers works by many of its greatest composers, accompanied by bassist Natallino Neto and percussionist Marcio Bahia. Highlights include the playful romp through "Mulher Rendeira" and the intimate "Luz Negra." a medley of songs by the late guitarist Baden Powell. Pereira's lyrical side is best appreciated in his own pieces, the soothing "Plainte" and the infectious dance "Carioca." Reed player Paul McCandless is added on four tracks, playing oboe, bass clarinet, English horn or soprano sax. Pereira's two solos, the dreamy "Be My Love" an overdubbed duet with himself of Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Eu Te Emo," are also gems. Highly recommended!