2-CD Review: Various Artists' 'Role: New Sounds of Brazil'

Various Artists
Role: New Sounds of Brazil [2-CD]
Mais Um Discos

The double-disc release, Role: New Sound of Brazil, is not your ordinary Brazilian album. This is not bossa nova or samba. Instead, the music is experimental, urban, electronica, indie rock, funk, hip-hop, and dark, brooding sounds on guitars, percussion, and samples. Both discs contain similar music that is amped-up with killer vocals and grooves that are almost indescribable, but can be included in avante-garde-grunge. The diverse vocals and instrumentation make the release a must-listen. Over forty tracks and nearly as many artists grace the albums. Fans of popular Brazilian music will get the most out of the tracks. However, anyone that wants an in-depth look at what's going on with Brazil's independent and underground music scene will find satisfaction in the tracks on Role: New Sounds of Brazil. ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Dona Onete's 'Feitico Cabloco'

Dona Onete
Feitico Cabloco
Mais Um Discos

Flamboyant songtress of seventy-three-years-young, Dona Onete graces our present with enlightening songs highlighting the Brazilian interior. Dona incorporates a variety of traditional dance rhythms and melodies with Caribbean salsa, samba, rap, and others all rooted in the culture of Brazil. The overall sound blends a bit of mariachi-like sounds with cumbia sounds and everything in-between. Don's vibrant vocals and happy spirit shines through on all of the tracks. There are eleven luscious tracks to indulge in. The music is general enough to appeal to Latin music fans, as well as anyone interested in South American, Caribbean, or Spanish music styles. Sink your teeth into the music of Brazil's Amazonian backbone. ~ Matthew Forss